A WEEKEND of free tours and free taster sessions are being planned to mark the opening of Selby's new leisure centre.

Following the devastating fire at Abbey Leisure Centre, Selby District Council recently finalised a deal to set up the gym facilities and a fitness studio in the former Walker's Bingo Club, Portholme Crescent, Selby.

Working in partnership with WLCT, a range of gym equipment and fitness classes will soon be on offer at ultra competitive rates.  An open weekend has been organised for Saturday 30 June and Sunday 1 July.

Peak membership will be available from just £19.99 a month while residents signing up for a twelve-month membership can join now and only start payment on 1 August.

A programme of group fitness classes are currently being delivered from Barlby High School and Selby Park and additional classes will be held in the new centre.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Mark Crane, said, "Considering the Abbey Leisure Centre fire was just eleven weeks ago, working with WLCT we've managed to re-provide alternative facilities extremely quickly.  That's testament to the hard work of both the Council and the Leisure Trust.

"Using the Portholme Crescent site gives us an opportunity to deliver first-rate facilities, albeit in a temporary location, as we work on the Abbey Leisure Centre site."

Stuart Murray, Chief Executive of WLCT, the organisation that runs leisure services on behalf of Selby District Council, said, "These last few months have been extremely tough but we have worked tremendously hard with our partners at Selby District Council to come up with quick and creative solutions following the terrible fire."

Over the coming months discussions will continue to decide the best approach to renewing leisure services at the Abbey Leisure Centre site.  The Council has already set out its commitment to provide at least equal facilities in the future.  The authority and WLCT are now working with insurers to determine the next steps.