It only opened for business a little over four years ago, but the Victory Swim and Fitness Centre in North Walsham has already expanded thanks to overwhelming demand.

It only opened for business a little over four years ago, but the Victory Swim and Fitness Centre in North Walsham has already expanded thanks to overwhelming demand.

An official opening of a £250,000 extension yesterday saw Barbara McGoun, chairman of North Norfolk District Council, cut the traditional ribbon and give a short speech.

The funding for the project has come from management company DC Leisure and the council, which owns the centre.

The extension houses extra cardiovascular and strength training machines, an improved stretching area and a new wireless cardio theatre, allowing users to listen to music or watch and listen to television while they exercise.

As part of the extension, work has been carried out to ensure access is provided for all users, especially those with a disability.

The council's leisure and cultural services manager Karl Read said the first few years for the Victory had been “hugely successful”, leaving the gym extremely busy at peak times.

“We have worked in partnership with DC Leisure to provide this extension and we are all very pleased it is being opened officially.”

Mrs McGoun paid tribute to the “driving force” of local woman and town councillor Ellen Grover who led much of the campaign to bring a gym and swimming pool to North Walsham for many years.

“There is a real sense of community at the Victory, it has become an incredibly successful place,” added Mrs McGoun.

DC Leisure's area manager Jeremy Boreham said the extension had come about because of customer demand.

“It provides a better service for the residents of North Walsham and surrounding villages to enjoy.”