THE first phase of a £3m council-run fitness suite has opened.

The new Lifestyle Fitness suite is on the first and second floors of Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre, in Newton Aycliffe.

It features state-of-the-art equipment, including cardiovascular equipment with built-in individual TVs, which is linked via central computers and to gym instructors' palm top computers.

Phase two, expected in July, will see the larger ground-floor fitness area redeveloped and linked with the other floors by an open-plan glass and steel staircase.

The scheme has been developed by Sedgefield Borough Council in partnership with Competition Line and a similar, but smaller scheme is expected in Spennymoor.

Gordon Hall, managing director of Competition Line, said: "The equipment and investment going into the Lifestyle Fitness suite here will make it one of the biggest and best gyms in the country, and that includes any of the private health clubs.

"The company that is supplying the equipment has told us that it was the biggest single order of equipment they have ever had.

"And it is the latest and most up-to-date equipment available, this standard of equipment should not just be the preserve of private clubs."

Jean Burton, manager at Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre, said: "Lifestyle Fitness is a great asset."

Open days take place on Saturday, April 21, and Saturday, May 12, from 10am to 3pm.