A VILLAGE gym is still fighting fit 10 years after it first opened.

Staff and customers from Inverclyde Leisure's Birkmyre Park facility in Kilmacolm are preparing to celebrate the milestone with a big birthday bash on Saturday.

What started out as a small village gym has now grown to become an integral part of the community, boasting over 500 members and a busy cafe.

Manager Jamie Cunningham says the facility is in rude health and he is looking forward to welcoming customers old and new to the party in Kilmacolm Golf Club.

Jamie said: "What's good about this gym is it's a village gym but it almost feels like a private one.

"Everyone knows each other and there's a really good atmosphere.

"There's a lot of bigger gyms in warehouses and places like that these days but Birkmyre has that personal touch.

"We have 521 members now and growing."

Jamie, who lives in the village, has worked at the facility since 2012 as a fitness advisor and took on the manager's role in April.

Gym shift leader Mandi Fraser, who also stays in Kilmacolm, and receptionist Karen McCrorie, from Houston, have been there since the start and believe the friendly atmosphere makes Birkmyre popular with villagers and visitors.

Mandi said: "It's a great part of the community and has grown over the years.

"It's become the heart of the village.

"Inverclyde Leisure have been great in refurbishing kit all the time.

"The staff and the people who come here make it a great place to work and great to be part of."

Colleague Karen added: "Ten years has gone so quickly and that's because the members make it the best job in the world.

"We're like a family and I know everyone by their first name."

The gym was given a £100,000 makeover in 2015, which included installation of state-of-the-art equipment from leading manufacturer Technogym.

More improvements are on the way in the coming months.

The 10th birthday bash is free for all members and £5 for non-members.

For more information speak to staff at reception or call 213123.