HAMBLETON’S four leisure centres are ready to reopen at the end of this month.

The district council run centres in Northallerton, Thirsk, Stokesley and Bedale will throw open their doors to the public on July 25 – 125 days after the coronavirus pandemic forced them to close.

Staff are busy putting the final touches to the changes needed to make the buildings Covid-19 safe – including social distancing measures.

To ensure the safety of customers and teams hand sanitisers have been installed across the centres, glass screens fitted at receptions, safety and usage guidance displayed and there will be more cleaning, more often.

Swimming pools, gyms and Northallerton’s toning suite will be open – as well as fitness classes.

Numbers will be restricted for all facilities in order to comply with social distancing measures.

“Our leisure centres are a vital cog in the work of the district council – and for our residents who rely on them for keeping physically and mentally fit and healthy,” said council leader, Councillor Mark Robson.

“So we were delighted that we have got the go ahead."

"A good deal of work has gone into getting them Covid-19 safe and our staff have been trained in how the new regulations will work.

“We are slowly seeing life get back to normal and leisure centres play a big part in that process. During the closures we have promoted the message ‘stay active, stay healthy, stay safe’ and we continue to do that.”

Throughout the lockdown centre staff have been posting motivational classes and fitness challenges on social media – and given advice and tips on how to stay healthy and keep fit.

All information on reopening plans, opening hours and advice for customers will be available on the leisure centre social media pages – Northallerton Leisure Centre, Thirsk and Sowerby Leisure Centre, Bedale Leisure Centre and Stokesley Leisure Centre; and at www.hambleton.gov.uk/zest/homepage/87/leisure_centres_re-opening.