A DUDLEY gym is offering free membership to young people aged between 16 and 21.

Top training tips and a diet plan will also be given out to youngsters who visit Flex Physiques in Queen's Cross.

Gym manager, Mohammed Nasar, said the offer is part of a Fresh Start initiative, which aims to help develop "future athletic stars".

He added: "I'm offering free membership to help them grow and learn how to develop muscles the right way.”

The initiative is being backed by sporting legend King Shazad, whose real name is Shahzada Saleem.

Mr Saleem, who became the stone-lifting world champion in 1985, said: “As some one who began training at 16, I know how difficult it is to get the right coaching and to train your muscles properly.

"For our youngsters, this is a great way of getting fit and in shape without damaging your muscles, the fact that its free is brilliant.

"I train regularly at this gym and the atmosphere is awesome, this place has a community of its own, open to all people, of all genders.”

The Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Dave Tyler, recently dropped by the gym as part of his pledge to visit 100 businesses during his year in office.

He said: "I was very impressed with the set up, I was even tempted have a go!

"It's a great way to encourage our youngsters and give them a worthy target to achieve.”