LEISURE centre bosses in Selkirk have been rewarded for their £550,000 refurbishment with a hike in memberships.

Since the upgrade was completed almost two months ago the Buccleuch Road facility has registered a 50 per cent increase in memberships.

And on Tuesday evening bosses from operators Live Borders were joined by representatives from Sportscotland and Scottish Borders Council for an official opening ceremony.

Live Borders chairman Peter Duncan said: "When you look at the financial climate that we operate in £550,000 is quite a large sum and it was no small feat to have found that degree of investment.

“Previously this was not a hugely impressive facility but it is certainly one that you would want to use now and one that is so much more accessible for the entire community.

“I must thank my fellow board members for supporting the decision to go ahead with this project and the management team at Live Borders who, as usual, have delivered a fantastic result."

The refurbishment ended years of concerns for the long-term future of Selkirk Leisure Centre.

Over the summer extensive internal work has seen a new larger gym installed, the creation of an exercise studio and a new sauna fitted by the side of the pool.

The reception area is now more open with an improved viewing area and the centre now boasts upgraded changing facilities.

Former Berwick Ranger captain Mark Cowan, who is head of facilities with Sportscotland, was impressed with the improvements.

He said: "This is a valuable resource to the people of Selkirk and the surrounding community and it’s important that these centres are, as best as possible, upgraded and maintained.

"You could argue that these facilities are just as important as the high-performance centres they have in the cities.

"This is where the journey starts for many and we must ensure that as many people as possible have access to them. First and foremost, this venue is for the community to be used by the community."