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Andover Leisure Centre Passes The Million Mark

Millionth customer to Andover Leisure Centre Jackson Silva earned himself a big block of celebratory chocolate and a year’s free membership to all Valley Leisure facilities. [Read More...]

A young man from Andover got a very nice surprise when he went to the gym with his friends at the Andover Leisure Centre this week. Just by stepping over the threshold he earned himself a big block of celebratory chocolate and a year’s free membership to all Valley Leisure facilities.

Jackson Silva, who’s 18, was given the VIP treatment for being the millionth customer since April to visit a Valley Leisure fitness centre.

It’s the first time that local leisure centres have recorded over a million visitors in a year. And the landmark is proving more people are getting more active.

Jackson Silva from Andover
Jackson Silva collects his prize from Valley Leisure chief executive Kevin Paterson

Valley Leisure chief executive, Kevin Paterson said: “We were delighted to welcome Jackson as our millionth customer but we’re even more thrilled with what it means.

“More and more people are coming to our leisure centres and many of them are coming more often, which means people are taking their fitness and wellbeing more seriously.

“It’s fantastic that so many people are doing something to keep themselves happy and healthy. We’ll do everything to encourage them to keep coming.”

Jackson’s good fortune of being the millionth customers is also good news for his mum. He regularly comes to the gym with his friends but she normally pays for his fees.

His great timing, however, means that for the next year his whole use of the leisure centre – from swimming to gym to badminton courts – will be free.

He can also use the other Valley Leisure centres, including the Rapids of Romsey and Charlton Lakeside.

Valley Leisure is a charitable trust that runs the local facilities in partnership with Test Valley Borough Council.

Jackson Silva (second left) with his envious mates
Jackson Silva (second left) with his envious mates