THE TEAM behind the remarkable success story of the Forest of Dean Fitness Centre is on the verge of achieving a dream to build the largest community fitness centre in Britain.
Lottery case officers have accepted the final costings for the Cinderford project and tenders are being sought. Building could start as early as July.
It all depends now on the final 'yes' from the the Lottery Board in June.
"You can never count your chickens but I believe we are 95 per cent of the way there," said Alan Elliott, the driving force behind the Heywood-based Forest Fitness Centre which has revolutionised the lives of hundreds of people throughout the district and beyond.
The centre's work with people seeking improved life-styles through fitness and referrals from local doctors, plus dedicated help for those with special needs, has earned huge respect.
As demands on the expertise available there increased, it became apparent to the trustees more space was needed.
"What we have planned is the biggest community fitness centre in Britain. It will be an 8,300 square feet purpose-built facility and it could be open by March of next year," said Alan.
In three and a half years the centre has raised over £108,000 towards the total cost of the project and the final bill could be £650,000.
The centre already attracts clients from all over the Forest, south Herefordshire, Gloucester, Cheltenham and Gwent.
"It is because of the specialist work we do. Fitness programmes are established for every individual and we have people from all age groups, some well into their 90s," said Alan.
He said the fund-raising effort had been a remarkable achievement and reflected the esteem in which the centre was held.
"I can't thank everyone enough for all the help they have given us," he said.
Meanwhile, it's fingers crossed for the final OK from the Lottery!