A PRIVATE gym is finding new ways to make services more accessible to parents.

Physique Fitness in Darlington has launched Physique Creche, a soft play centre located opposite the gym, which provides childcare for its members.

“We are a family centric gym and many parents, especially single parents, struggle to keep active because of the lack of childcare. We had to do something to fix that,” said gym manager Deith Bridges.

Parents can leave children between the ages of 12 weeks to 10-years-old in the creche between the opening hours of 9am to noon or 4pm to 7pm.

In charge of running the creche is Sam Patterson, who has 13 years experience in childcare management.

Designed to promote interactive learning, the creche is complete with a large soft play structure complete with ball pit, tunnels and slides designed for children aged three and over, and a enclosed area for babies and toddlers with stimulating toys. The centre, which took a total of six weeks to complete, will host a taster day for members and their children today.