A NEW community gym for people of all shapes and sizes has opened in Worcester.

University of Worcester vice-chancellor Professor David Green officially opened the YMCA gym.

Prof Green was invited to the centre in Henwick Road, St John's, in recognition of the support the university's recreation and sports department had provided to set up the gym.

He said: "We are privileged to enjoy a strong relationship with the YMCA, which carries out excellent work within the community.

"Working in close partnership, we've helped develop sporting opportunities and social integration projects with YMCA residents and over the past five years fostered a number of work experience initiatives for our students.

"One of our international undergraduates is currently working on a six-month project with the YMCA team to investigate sport and the benefits it can bring to social inclusion.

"We're delighted at the creation of this new sporting facility and look forward to continuing our relationship in the future."

For more information about the gym or healthy living programmes call the YMCA on 01905 423197.