BUSINESS troubleshooter Sir John Harvey-Jones is helping to launch the Forest Fitness Centre's bid to go it alone without grant aid.

Embattled trustees, bitter at being turned down twice for lottery aid and also for Coalfield Regeneration money, are determined to raise the £300,000 they need.

Their aim is to create a healthy lifestyle centre on the Heywood Community Site that will be classed as the first national centre of excellence for athletes with learning difficulties.

"Sir John has offered to present a business seminar on The Euro and British Business on January 22 at Cheltenham Town Hall," said chairman of trustees Alan Elliott.

The evening starts with a sherry reception. As well as Sir John's contribution Peter Ball of thatusefulplace.com will give a talk on business and the internet, and there will be a short video about the centre and its aims.

The trustees will also use the occasion to launch a fundraising competition with major prizes including an E-type Jaguar car and a holiday in America.

The fund has already topped £50,000 and the trustees are hoping the seminar, which should be a glittering event for anyone interested in business and industry, will give it a big boost.

More information is available on thatuseful place.co/forestgym and tickets can be bought from Donna Derrick of Business Link on 01594 827029.

Anyone offering support or donations can contact Alan Elliott on 01594 826979.