A NEW fitness centre and community hub is quickly taking shape in Upper Gornal, thanks to the community uniting together in support.

Black Country Wellbeing Centre, based at Vale Street Community Centre in Upper Gornal, has opened its doors for its first classes, with more activities and facilities opening in the weeks to come.

Wade Cooper, founder of the centre, explained how its completion has been a community endeavour thanks to the support of businesses and councillors and the work of volunteers.

He said: "It's all happened because of help from the community. We had no funding at all."

Described by Wade as place for 'young kids to OAPs', the centre will run fitness classes alongside hosting gym equipment.

The centre also houses a cafe, which will provide meals for the elderly, and support workers will be on hand to help people with disabilities and those struggling with unemployment.

Wade also hopes to open a music studio there in the future.

The opening marks the culmination of months of hard work, as Wade and volunteers transformed the run-down building into a modern centre.

It also marks a turning point in Wade's life, as he set his mind on opening the centre after being released from prison.

He credits his time inside for giving him an education, allowing him to qualify as a personal trainer.

After a troubled past, he now wants to give back to his community and provide a place for young people to get off the streets.

Wade paid special tribute to Dean Hiscox and William Watton, two people who have been instrumental in supporting Wade and getting the centre open.

Dean is Wade's former boss who helped Wade get his life back on track after his release.

Describing Dean as his role model, Wade said: "He gave me my first job, I would not be where I am today without him."

Praising William, he said: "He's been the rock of the build. The main man from day one, he has done all voluntary work everyday since we started."

A hall of fame will be revealed when the centre is officially opened with the names of the individuals and businesses who have donated to the centre.