A NEW gym is to open at the YMCA in Worcester, thanks to an anonymous donation of several thousand pounds.

Mel Smith, community development officer at the centre in Henwick Road, St John's, said they were contacted by a third party on behalf of the mystery donor telling them that they were interested in funding a project. She said: "We have been working towards getting a gym set up here for a while. Thanks to a substantial donation, we have been able to kit out the gym with a range of quality equipment including treadmills, cross-trainer, rowing mach-ines and resistance equipment. The donation will cover a significant proportion of the gym's running cost for the first year.

"The gym will offer affordable and enjoyable exercise opportunities in a relaxed and friendly setting suitable for everyone from beginners, who might just want some gentle exercise to increase fitness, to the more experienced gym visitor looking for a full workout."

Ms Smith added that while the YMCA does receive smaller donations, they have never before had one of this size.

She said: "We are very pleased and very grateful and the local community will really benefit from this generous donation.

"This is a local facility for local people. Anyone who wants to come and have a look around is more than welcome."

The centre's management is due to discuss the date of the gym's formal opening at a meeting this week.

For more information about the gym contact the YMCA on 01905 423197.