A MULTI-thousand pound refurbishment scheme at Andover Leisure Centre has been realised with the upgrading of two sets of changing rooms.

The male and female changing areas have been modernised to include larger wood-effect lockers, vanity units, better lighting and interior designing.

Test Valley Borough Council has invested heavily in the improvements, paying £40,000 for the work that has taken two months to complete.

Bob James, the group operations manager of Valley Leisure, which runs the centre, says they are thrilled with the result.

"We've had some very positive feedback from customers who say the facilities here are better than those at private clubs.

"It's our intention to continue to be one of the best centres in Hampshire, and we see investing in equipment and facilities as an important part of that," he said.

The refurbishment work also gets the 'thumbs-up' from Olympic Silver medallist Kate Howey who is a regular user and supporter of the leisure centre.

The judo champion says: "The leisure centre caters for all users of the community from those just starting out to Olympic standard. I've seen the many changes over the years and it's great to have some up-to-date facilities to change in, as well as train in."