A SWIMMING pool and fitness centre in Malvern is celebrating after a successful open day to mark the opening of its fitness studio.

The event was the latest chapter in Malvern Splash leisure complex's success story since re-opening at the end of July after refurbishment works totalling more than £1m.

The centre, on Priory Road, saw about 200 people come along over the weekend to take part in a wide range of fitness classes - from aqua-aerobics to body-combat, and 30 people became new members.

Since the fitness studio at the centre opened last week it has increased the number of classes it runs from 25 to 32 due to demand and its body combat class has also already doubled in membership.

"It's been a huge success and fantastic - we couldn't have wanted it any better," said fitness manager Brian Philpotts.

The centre's pool is also continuing to make a splash, with the number of swimmers taking up lessons having more than doubled - from 700 to 1,500 people, since it re-opened.

The complex was closed for six months this year while refurbishment works took place.

The gymnasium at the leisure complex has now been extended over the reception area, doubling in size, and a new dance studio and showering and changing facilities have been installed.

Other improvement works include a new reception area and front entrance, sauna, steam room, creche and caf. The pool and pool changing facilities have also been redecorated and refurbished.