ST Mary's Leisure Centre in Southampton reopened to the public yesterday, looking better than ever after a £245,000 refit.

The main sports hall of the Victorian building, first opened in 1889, has been given a new floor, while the fitness suite has been kitted out with brand new equipment.

The gym has been moved upstairs to a more appropriate room, which has also been refloored in line with health and safety regulations.

In 2004 the popular sports centre was saved when public pressure prompted an eleventh-hour U-turn by Southampton City Council, which had threatened to shut it down in an attempt to balance its budget.

More than 1,800 residents signed a petition and 300 campaigners marched on the Civic Centre demanding the centre, which is the only council-run sports facility in central Southampton, be saved.

Campaign organiser Nick Chaffey is delighted at the investment.

"Today is very, very positive. It means we've got better facilities and a long-term future here," he said at yesterday's official opening.

To celebrate the refurbishment, the centre is holding a free 'back to fitness' day on January 20.

Members of the public will be able to use all of the facilities, including badminton, squash, indoor football and a climbing wall, as well as receiving complimentary inductions for the fitness suite.

Ring 023 8022 7579 to book a free induction.