Inverclyde Leisure's Waterfront Fitness Gym has been announced as winner of the Local Authority Gym of the year at the National Fitness Awards 2011.

The facility beat five other finalists from more than 500 nominations to be presented with the award at Birmingham ICC last month.

John Higgins, chief executive of Inverclyde Leisure, said: "This is a fantastic achievement and demonstrates the standards we are continually working hard to achieve for our customers. I would personally like to thank the staff for their continued effort in helping to achieve this prestigious award.

"David McCorkindale, general manager of Inverclyde Leisure, added: "It's a great achievement for Inverclyde. We are grateful for the continued support of our staff and coaches who contribute so much within the company, delivering first class facilities and service for our customers. I would like to dedicate this award to all customers and members of our facilities and would like to especially thank them for there continued commitment and support over the years."

The Waterfront Fitness Gym has gone from strength to strength since opening in 2002, growing from 700 to more than 4,000 dedicated members.The awards were hosted by Katherine Kelly, who plays Becky McDonald in TVs Coronation Street.