THE biggest and most progressive rehabilitation centre for people recovering from illness and injuries could be open in the Forest of Dean by Christmas of next year.

The Healthy Lifestyle Fitness Centre planned for the Heywood School site at Cinderford, would transform the present fitness centre facilities into the most important gym of its kind in the west of England.

The project, spearheaded by Alan Elliott and the Fitness Centre management team and trustees, will cost in the region of £500,000.

The new building element for which Lottery aid is being sought will involve costs of over £400,000. The trustees have already committed £70,000 towards the work and if all goes to plan the remainder will come from the Lottery.

Mr Elliott told the Review: "A submission has already been made and we have been allocated a case manager. We have been told that our bid is being processed in theshortest possible time and we anticipate the answer by the end of January."

Mr Elliott said facilities at the fitness centre were now over subscribed.

"We have medical referrals from all over the county and the centre is now recognised as a leader in the field of rehabilitation for people seeking to overcome health problems and recover from injuries received in accidents.

"What we are planning is a project which will put Cinderford and the Forest in the forefront of advances being made in this specialised field. It is very exciting," he said.

Given the green light, building could start as early as next February and would take about 32 weeks to complete.

Mr Elliott's team are financing a major part of the project with what they say is the biggest competition of its kind ever to be held in the county.

They have a unique collectors edition E-Type Jaguar valued at £18,000 which is being offered as top prize to the person who can guess the vehicle's mileage.

•Fancy a guess...don't miss next week's Review to find out how you can have a go.