THE new £3m health club at Chilworth Manor was opened by ex-Saints legend, Francis Benali.

Chilworth resident, Francis, who held his wedding ceremony at the hotel 16 years ago, said: "It's a fantastic club and just what the area needed. I'm sure it will be a huge success. I just can't wait to use it myself!"

The eagerly-awaited complex, called theclub@chilworth-manor, has taken just over seven months to build and had already signed up more than 300 members before the doors officially opened.

Members and guests can now enjoy a leisurely swim in a luxurious, heated swimming pool, or relax in a spa bath, poolside sauna, or steam room, as well as use the high-tech gym, or spinning studio.

For those who wish to indulge in more relaxing pursuits, the hotel is offering a variety of holistic and beauty treatments and has selected Comfort Zone beauty products -- they recently won Best Spa Cosmetic Product at the 2006 European Spa Exhibition - for its four fully-equipped treatment rooms. Treatments will include aromatherapy massages, hot-stone treatments, manicures, pedicures and wraps.

The club is run by a 15-strong dedicated team of health and fitness experts. To register your interest, go to: theclub@chilworth-manor.co.uk or log onto www.chilworth-manor.co.uk.