Leisure centres throughout Cornwall will be celebrating the thirtieth birthday of the charitable social enterprise running them over the weekend beginning Friday, July 21.

Operating under the Better brand, GLL operates leisure centres in Bude, Saltash, Liskeard, Bodmin, St Austell, Newquay, Truro, Helston and St Ives. 

To mark the milestone occasion, each will be holding open weekend activities themed to reflect the early 1990s when GLL first launched. To that end, there will be fancy dress pool parties and fitness classes. 

Amelia Kitchen, GLL senior general manager in West Cornwall, said: “GLL’s stated aim has always been to improve the physical, mental and social wellbeing of local communities and we work very hard to achieve that. 

“We’re inviting local stakeholders to meet our local managers over a cake and a cuppa on Friday, July 21 and, throughout the weekend, we’ll be encouraging customers to dress up in nineties gear to create a party atmosphere. Ever mindful of cost-of-living pressures, we’re still offering free Cornwall Card membership to local residents and a range of swimming lesson deals.”

As well as celebrating its 30th birthday, GLL is also marking the fifteenth year of the GLL Sports Foundation. Eighty-four Cornwall-based athletes were recently awarded more than £52,000 between them. Representing 18 different sports at a variety of levels, most recipients don’t receive any other central funding support.

James Curry, GLL’s head of service in Cornwall, added: “Our party weekend is an opportunity to see our facilities, take part in a wide range of activities and generally have fun.

“Keeping fit and healthy should be enjoyable and that’s what local leisure centres are about. Exercise and smiles.”

 • For more information, visit www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/cornwall