Newly-released figures show that 32,000 people came through the doors at North West Leicestershire District Council, started admitting members on to the new premises on February 14.

Customers were queuing before 6am and Everyone Active says that demand continued throughout the £22.5 million site's first 14 days in business, with 31,745 customer visits recorded during that period.

The swimming facilities were used 14,728 times, while there were 8,797 fitness gym visits.

Duncan Gibb, Everyone Active's contract manager, said: "We're delighted to see so many people already enjoying Whitwick and Coalville Leisure Centre and experiencing the wide range of activities on offer.

"We've been overwhelmed by the positive feedback we have received from customers and it's been a great start to life for the centre.

"We're really positive that we can grow our membership numbers over the coming months and that people from across the community will use this fantastic facility.

"No matter what your age, ability or interests, there's an activity for you here."

The venue opened five months ahead of schedule and boasts an eight-lane 25 metre swimming pool, learner pool, 110-station gym, cycling and dance studios, squash courts and an eight-court sports hall.

Also included are a café, a Clip 'n Climb wall and a sauna, steam and spa pool.

The majority of visitors have come from within the district, though the facility is attracting customers from the rest of Leicestershire, neighbouring counties and even further afield – with one person travelling more than 50 miles to visit.

Councillor Andrew Woodman, Portfolio Holder for Community Services at NWLDC, said: "Our investment in this facility is for the whole district and it's great to see people flooding in – both from neighbouring towns and villages, from across our district and even from further afield.

"The leisure centre is geared up for everyone, of any age, interest or ability, and we have high hopes for the contribution it can make to the people's health and wellbeing in North West Leicestershire."

Customers have already given Whitwick and Coalville Leisure Centre rave reviews.

John Harrison, 74, was one of the first customers to use the new centre. He said: "When I pulled in to the place, it looked fantastic.

"I'll use the gym and can swim and go to the steam room and sauna. It's all brand new and the bottom line is it's great value for money."

Lesley Cave was also impressed with what she saw, saying: "I think it's amazing. It's nice to have a new challenge with new equipment in the gym and I might have a go at some of the fitness classes as well.

"The design of the building is very impressive and almost futuristic."

Robert Payne, 35, is a regular gym-goer and said: "The gym seems to have everything. I like the fact you have different segments for different kinds of training.

"There's lots of equipment I haven't seen before, so I'm sure I'll give it a go.

"You hope that local people will make use of the centre and that it encourages people to get into fitness."

For more information on Everyone Active, click HERE.