Women in Redbridge can keep fit at a female-only heath club which opened in Brooks Parade, off Green Lane, Goodmayes, on Saturday.

Mayor of Redbridge Cllr Muhammed Javed and Goodmayes councillors Bert Jones and Barbara White welcomed the new business by taking part in its official opening.

The Energise Health Club for Women includes a fitness suite including cardiovascular and strength equipment, an infra-red sauna and a cr�che.

It will be run by managing director Shamir Chowdhury, 41, and his wife Rima Chowdhury, 38, who will be its club manager.

Mr Chowdhury explained the decision to aim their business at women only.

He said: “A lot of health clubs don’t necessarily cater for women or they have slots for women and mothers.

“Many women have the opinion that gyms are for men, there’s lot of muscular looking men and they don’t feel comfortable being around many men working out.

“Particularly some Asian communities, they’re looking for facilities like this and there’s a lack of these in Redbridge.”

The club will also offer fitness classes, nutrition advice and body massage.

Monthly memberships will start from �25 a month.