BASINGSTOKE Aquadrome has been highly commended at a national award for its work on diversity and inclusion, while its fitness manager came runner-up in the Physical Activity Hero of the Year category.

The fitness centre, which is run by Serco Leisure for the Basingstoke and Deane Community Leisure Trust, reached the final of ukactive Awards under the diversity and inclusion category.

Its fitness manager Marek Wisniewski came runner-up in the Physical Activity Hero of the Year category.

The Ukactive Awards are considered the most prestigious event of its kind in the health and fitness calendar, recognising excellence across the industry.

In a typical year, they would take place as part of a conference held at Manchester Central. But this year, due to Covid-19, a virtual event was staged with over 500 attendees.

The award presenters this year were sporting legend Tanni Grey-Thompson and former Olympian Greg Whyte, OBE.

Jimmy Miller, contract manager for BDCLT said: “To be highly commended in such an important category is great news for the Aquadrome team.

“I’d like to congratulate Marek on coming so close to winning. The work Marek and the team do to ensure people with mental health conditions feel welcome and supported at the centre is extremely valuable, and while it’s disappointing for him not to win, he should be proud of the work he’s done to change people’s lives and receiving the recognition of highly commended.

“Events like these are important as they celebrate the vital contribution local leisure centres play in helping communities lead happier, healthier lifestyles.”

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s cabinet member for health, wellbeing and leisure Cllr Rebecca Bean said: “We would like to congratulate Marek and the team for coming so close to winning two awards and being recognised for their hard work by national industry experts.

“Taking part in sports and physical activity is an important part of leading a healthy lifestyle and minimising the risk of developing serious health conditions but it can be daunting for many people.

“Marek and his team have created a positive space where people of all ages can come to feel supported and continue their journey to becoming more active.”