THE two leisure centres ran by Winchester City Council have reopened their doors.

River Park in the city centre and Meadowside in Whiteley are now back in action.

Staff at both centres have been busy putting in place various safety measures to enhance social distancing.

Council leader Cllr Lucille Thompson said: "It is wonderful to see our much-loved leisure centres welcome people back.

"These fantastic places contribute so much to the wellbeing of our residents by providing a space for people to train, swim, take part in classes and take part in sports and I know how much people have missed them.

"My thanks go to the staff at both centres and Everyone Active who have been working tirelessly to put in new enhanced safety measures that give our residents extra reassurance when they use these fantastic facilities."

Everyone Active, the company now running the day-to-day operation of both centres after agreeing a partnership with the council, will also be operating the new Winchester Sports and Leisure Park in Bar End from Spring 2021.

Area contract manager Alison Norman said: "We’re delighted to officially reopen the wonderful facilities at River Park Leisure Centre and Meadowside Leisure Centre.

"After being closed throughout the past six months, I’m sure the local community will be eager to get back into our centres again.

"Sports and exercise is not only good for us physically, but mentally too. By working with Winchester City Council we strive to keep encouraging people to utilise our facilities to improve their health and wellbeing.

"We’re looking forward to seeing many new and returning members through the doors and would urge anyone interested in joining to come in and chat to our friendly team."

To use the leisure centres people will now need to book activities in advance.

This can be done either online or by using the Everyone Active app.