Visitors praised Whitwick and Coalville's new state-of-the-art leisure centre as it opened its doors for the first time on Monday.

Former Hermitage Leisure Centre users were queuing before 6am on Monday to test out the new facilities on offer.

The £22.5 million centre is a partnership between North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) and its leisure operator Everyone Active. It has opened five months ahead of schedule thanks to contractors Metnor.

Whitwick and Coalville Leisure Centre boasts an eight-lane 25 metre swimming pool, learner pool, gym, cycling and dance studios, squash courts and an eight-court sports hall.

With a café, Clip 'n Climb and sauna, steam and spa pool too, there's something for every age, interest and ability at the centre.

Visiting with her two children for the start of half-term, Samantha McNelly, 49, said: "The facilities look great, the showers were nice and hot and the pool was warm.

"The kids loved the Clip 'n Climb, particularly how challenging it was as completing it was a big achievement."

Coalville resident Phil Kirkland, 58, tried out the new 110 station gym. He said: "The leisure centre is a great addition to the town because it's something positive for everyone in the town to enjoy.

"The building on the whole looks brilliant and I will be using more of the facilities."

Memberships are now available HERE., giving access not only to the new centre, but to 200+ leisure centres nationwide, including Ashby Leisure Centre and Lido.

Facilities at Whitwick and Coalville Leisure Centre:

• Eight-lane, 25m main pool
• Learner pool with moveable floor
• 110-station gym
• Group cycling studio (25 bikes)
• Group dance studio
• Eight-court sports hall
• Clip 'n Climb and Adventure Mania
• Sauna, steam and spa pool
• Three squash courts
• Changing Places facility, accessible from the lobby
• Café, with healthy eating options
• 250 car parking spaces
• Parkland setting, incorporating trim trail / recreation opportunities.

Councillor Andrew Woodman, NWLDC Portfolio Holder for Community Services, said: "There was a real buzz on opening day, it was great to see so many people coming to see the new facilities on offer.

"The centre offers a great environment for helping people in the district to move more and get active, and with its environmental credentials, the centre is also supporting our work to become a Zero Carbon council.

"There is no greater investment a council can make than in the health and wellbeing of its residents."

Duncan Gibb, Everyone Active's contract manager, said: "We were delighted to throw open the doors and welcome the local community to this fantastic site, which provides an activity for everyone.

"We have a tremendous range of facilities for the public to enjoy and this is without doubt one of the most impressive leisure centres in the region."