A HEALTH club chain says it has invested £850,000 in new equipment for four of its North-East gyms to help members achieve their fitness goals.

Bannatyne Fitness, which is owned by Dragon’s Den star Duncan Bannatyne and has its head office in Darlington, has replaced its cardiovascular equipment with new machines that also double as an entertainment station.

The Bannatyne gyms in Coulby Newham, Darlington, Durham and Ingleby Barwick have each received new equipment, including treadmills, bikes and cross-trainers that have docks for MP3 players to allow people to listen to their own music while they work out.

Colin MacGillvray, North East regional manager at Bannatyne Fitness, said: “Bannatyne Fitness is a growing company which continually strives for excellence in its health clubs.

“Continually investing in new workout equipment is hugely important because it ensures that members are always able to access the very best and most up-to-date equipment to help them achieve their personal fitness goals.”