Serco has been confirmed as the new operator of Mansfield District Council (MDC)-owned leisure facilities, following the agreement of a 10-year contract commencing on 1 May.

The firm was named as MDC's preferred operator in December last year, which includes all five local authority-owned centres - such as the Rebecca Adlington Swimming Centre.

In addition to the Mansfield agreement, Serco has also been named as preferred bidder for a 10-year contract to manage five leisure centres owned by Shropshire Council.

Detailed discussions between the council and Serco are now due to begin, with the hope that the new arrangement will come into effect in early summer.

Details: www.mansfield.gov.uk (Mansfield District Council)

Details: www.shropshire.gov.uk (Shropshire Council)