Ricky hails all-new sports centre a hit

IT’S a hit . . . Ricky Hatton with Oldham Council leader Jim McMahon (left) and OCL chief executive Stuart Lockwood

FORMER world boxing champ Ricky Hatton has declared the £1 million revamp of Failsworth Sports Centre a winner.

The Hitman officially opened the facilities which include a new adult-only gym and a gym for 13 to 16-year-olds. There is also a new refreshment lounge and a bigger exercise studio, the pool has been refurbished and there are new changing rooms.

Hatton said going to the gym had replaced the pub as a night out for many people. He also believes that facilities such as Failsworth Sports Centre play an important part in keeping young people off the streets and out of trouble.

“I think it will be a winner. The community, the kids, everyone is going to benefit from it,” he said.

The refurbishment has been paid for by Oldham Community Leisure (OCL), which manages the centre, and Oldham Council.

OCL chief executive Stuart Lockwood said: “The facilities are first class.”