Shenley Leisure Centre Newsletter
Issue 2. January-March 2024
HAPPY NEW YEAR
SHENLEY LEISURE CENTRE BURCHARD CRESCENT, SHENLEY CHURCH END, MILTON KEYNES MK5 6HF 01908 502488 ENQUIRIES@SHENLEYLEISURECENTRE.CO.UK WWW.SHENLEYLEISURE.ORG.UK WWW.BOOKINGS.SHENLEYLEISURE.ORG.UK
Welcome to the January - March 2024 edition of Shenley Leisure Centre’s newsletter.
Contents
A few words from our Chairman, Chris Brown Comments from The General Manager Update on Sports Hall & Gym Closure Meet the Team Fitness Class Timetable A Customer Experience Review New Smith Machine Coming Soon Charlotte Briant, Personal Trainer Profile Our Price Guide Clubs at Shenley Leisure Centre Sports Achiever of the Year Event 2023 Online Booking Information Hire Equipment Sportsmens Rest Information In the next issue/Advertising/Contact Us SHENLEY LEISURE CENTRE BURCHARD CRESCENT, SHENLEY CHURCH END, MILTON KEYNES MK5 6HF 01908 502488 ENQUIRIES@SHENLEYLEISURECENTRE.CO.UK WWW.SHENLEYLEISURE.ORG.UK WWW.BOOKINGS.SHENLEYLEISURE.ORG.UK
CHAIR OF THE TRUST – CHRIS BROWN
Surely it wasn’t 12 months ago I carried the Christmas decorations down from the loft cursing that we will be putting them back up there again in a few weeks. Time travels quickly so you may ponder has enough happened at the Shenley Leisure Centre (SLC) from our last newsletter 3 months ago and you may think, No, but you’d be wrong!? In October 23, we managed to turn our fortunes around and the SLC was able to show a small profit which has not happened since the pandemic started. Thanks are due to Chris Passfield and all his staff for working so hard and of course you the customers for making this positive financial result a first for a very long time. Dave Hall is a legend and on top of his busy schedule organising the over 60’s Bingo and Monday quizzes he fitted in another quiz evening specially for the sports clubs from SLC. The squash boys, Louise and I were flying high and in the lead after 5 rounds with one to go, but our hopes were dashed as we crashed and burned in the last round, whose idea was it to pick obscure Halloween songs!
In December both Chris Passfield and I presented awards on behalf of SLC at the MK Sports Achievers Award held at Denbigh School, what an impressive evening. We were entertained by the SLC’s own Jill Foster dance group with an excellent rendition of “When I grow up” from the musical Matilda followed by a display from Livvy’s Lovelies which was equally impressive and that was just the start. I really did not realise we had so much sporting talent in MK with a couple of budding Olympians who were recognized, although my personal favourite was Mr Ted Brown, who has won many national awards for power lifting in the over 90’s category, I doff my cap. Another highlight of the evening was the talk by the keynote speaker Dr Dorian Dugmore (Duggie) who was speaking on his specific topic of cardiovascular medicine. One incredible fact was mentioned about the heart rate testing of a Japanese superbike rider who was monitored whilst competing in a race. Unfortunately, he came off his motorbike at the first bend and his heart rate went from rest of about 60 beats a minute to 164 beats per minute. However, the head of the pit team who was monitoring the rider’s heartbeat went up to 240 beats per minute showing the stress and pressure on the pit crew was so much higher than the riders, a real revelation and an indication of what stress can do to your heart. It has been over a year since we first heard that dreaded acronym “RAAC” mentioned and the subsequent national newspaper articles which swiftly followed. As mentioned in the last newsletter we are tracking along well in respect to the roof repairs and we hope we will be able to re-open the main Sports Hall early in the new year, so watch out for details on the grand opening. To conclude I return to the Sports Achiever’s awards evening and the mayor of MK, Mick Legg who was also there presenting awards along with his wife. Mandy was asked to say a few words as closing remarks because she had stood in for the mayor in the first half of the programme. Mandy mentioned that she had recently reached a significant birthday and had just taken up open water swimming and body boarding emphasizing that you are never too old to take on a new challenge in life. Her comments resonated with me and rounded off an inspiring evening which I for one had not foreseen. Finally thank you once again for your custom in 2023 it is always appreciated. We also look forward to bringing more news of re-openings, new activities and great new initiatives in the next newsletter. Happy New Year. All the best,
www.shenleyleisure.org.uk
Welcome to our second newsletter. How quick did the three months go since the last issue, let alone all of 2023. When I look back at last year I think of it as a highly unusual one in the history of Shenley Leisure Centre, and this feeling of something missing has continued into 2024. Fingers crossed the familiar sounds of shuttlecocks and basketballs will be heard again very soon. Work on the sports hall is nearing completion and the gymnasium work is well Chris Passfield underway. Unfortunately, it’s too early to provide a General Manager specific date for activities to resume. I have to acknowledge how fantastic our customers are, some we’ve managed to relocate in the centre, some temporarily moved elsewhere and some have not been able to participate here at all. Trampolining, Basketball, Korfball and Badminton all looking to return as soon as we can accommodate them which is a huge compliment to us as a centre that they want to return after such a long time. It’s not just the sports and their connected clubs that has been affected, every customer has. With the noise, reduced car parking and general appearance, thank you all for your patience. 2024 will be an important year for the leisure centre and one I’m looking forward too. The excitement is building as every week passes as we can’t wait to do what we do best, provide the community with a great venue to host their chosen activity. Early November we held a quiz in the bar for block booking customers, thank you to those that attended. We’ll be doing it again around October/November this year as well. Congratulations to Jill Foster Dance Centre and Shenley Jujitsu with their recent awards at Sport MK’s Sports Achiever of the Year Awards evening on December 5th. Our very own aerobics instructor, Livvy along with ‘Livvy’s Lovelies’ showcased some of their moves at the awards evening as well. Well done to all the participants and winners. Sport MK has funding available for equipment which they are taking applications for. If your club is affiliated or wants to affiliate for funding details are on sportmk.co.uk/membership.html. A great way to offer more for your participants and help increase participation, you are then able to make monthly nominations to anyone in your club. There’ll be a new piece of fitness equipment in the fitness room which will be installed early this year, more details mentioned later in the issue. During the second week of January 2024 the bar area will be painted followed by deep cleaning of the carpet and bar and foyer furniture along with replacing the bar blinds. Just the first of what we hope to be a few improvements being made this year. www.shenleyleisure.org.uk
SPORTS HALL & GYMNASIUM ROOF WORK Towards the end of 2022, a routine survey identified that there might be possibly some RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) in the Sports Hall. In response, a professional structural survey was undertaken throughout the whole site in November 2022, which confirmed that the product was present. Throughout the entire process Denbigh Academy and Shenley Leisure Centre have adhered to Government guidelines and Denbigh Academy was successful in an application for funding to replace both the Sports Hall and Gymnasium roofs, including a new floor in the Gym. These areas are the only two identified as having RAAC. Initially the Gym was deemed safe to continue using until very late August 2023 when the Government changed their stance on any educational buildings that had RAAC identified.
The leisure centre staff had a close view from the staff room and office window.
Thank you to those that have provided your booking forms. Kayleigh has the booking system ready for you to start your activity as soon as we can. Please contact blockbookings@shenleyleisurecentre .co.uk to enquire about availability.
Work begun in early July 2023 with regards to replacing the Sports Hall roof. As a result you will notice a building compound at the rear of the building. Since the news that the Gym had to close earlier than expected, work is well underway in there. Initially the Sports Hall completion was due for January 2024. As of 21st Dec this is still on target, however a date when we can resume is still to be confirmed. Further updates will be communicated as we get them.
www.shenleyleisure.org.uk
Welcome to Shenley Leisure CentreMeet the Core Team At Shenley Leisure Centre, our commitment goes beyond providing a fantastic venue; it extends to the passionate team who make your leisure experience that bit more fulfilling. Meet the individuals who form the core of our team.
Mo, Reception Manager
Erica, Bar Manager
Hepi, Finance & Admin Manager
Dave, Duty Manager
As the reception manager at the leisure centre, I am responsible for ensuring smooth front desk operations. My role involves managing customer interactions, handling inquiries, and contributing to a positive experience for all visitors from the moment they arrive. I appreciate the strong sense of community at our workplace, where every day brings new and exciting challenges. Providing pastoral care to our customers is a rewarding aspect, allowing me to build trustful relationships with both members and staff. The mutual trust established means that my colleagues rely on me for assistance and support.
As the bar manager at the leisure centre, my role involves overseeing all aspects of the bar operation. This includes managing inventory, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere, and coordinating with staff to provide excellent service for our customers and members. I like my job as a Bar Manager, it allows me to blend creativity with organisational skills, creating a vibrant, inviting atmosphere for customers, whilst ensuring smooth operations. I have gained my bar license and keep my knowledge upto date with mini CPL courses in my free time.
As the finance manager at the leisure centre, my role involves overseeing financial operations and ensuring fiscal responsibility. I work to maintain the financial health of the centre, supporting its overall mission to provide quality recreational services I find fulfilment in my role as a finance manager at the leisure centre due to the intersection of financial responsibility and the vibrant atmosphere of the facility. Outside of delving into my work, I relish spending time with my work colleagues.
I'm the duty manager at the leisure centre, responsible for day-to-day operations and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. In addition to the day-to-day operations as Duty Manager, behind the scenes I am the Health and Safety representative making sure all documents are up to date, promoting a safe working environment and ensuring compliance. I love doing the Health and Safety side and I am NEBOSH qualified. I also have the headache of composing the staff rota each month!
Kayleigh, Duty Manager
Colin, Caretaker & Shift Supervisor
Dan, Operations Assistant
Ami, Bar Assistant
Chris, General Manager
I’m the duty manager at the leisure centre, overseeing daily operations to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment. In addition to overseeing Block Bookings and ensuring accurate bookings and invoices, I take charge of the bar in the absence of the bar manager. I recently obtained my bar license and am currently pursuing studies to become a Gym Instructor. I thoroughly enjoy my work here and have established positive connections with all our customers and members.
As the leisure centre caretaker and shift supervisor, I manage facility maintenance, ensuring a clean and safe environment. My role involves addressing any operational needs to guarantee a smooth and secure experience for both staff and visitors.
As the operations assistant at the leisure centre, I support daily activities to ensure smooth operations. My role involves assisting in various tasks, contributing to facility organization, and providing support to different departments to enhance the overall efficiency of the leisure centre.
I’m a Bar Assistant at the Leisure Centre, actively involved in the maintaining smooth day to day operations of the bar. My role is geared towards ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for our visitors
As the General Manager of the leisure centre. I oversee all aspects of its operations. I work to create a vibrant and inclusive environment that promotes health, fitness, and recreational activities ensuring a high-quality experience for our customers. I have a wonderful team around me who share that passion to please the customer and gives me great satisfaction when I see the team provide the type of service we pride ourselves on and customers with a smile on their face.
New Circl Class Starting 8pm 16th Jan.
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A Customer Experience Review ‘There are many leisure centres in Milton Keynes to choose from, so what makes Shenley stand out from the others you may ask. Well I can only say from my own personal experience. I was advised to join some kind of fitness workout group several years ago on advice from my health care consultant. Although at that time I was well into my seventies (and now my eighties,) and having had heart problems, I was somewhat unsure of what to expect when I called in at the Shenley centre to make enquiries. I was made to feel welcome from the very start by the office staff. Everything was explained to me regarding what was available, which classes would be best suited to my circumstances and what days and times these ran. I was even offered a free trial class to see if that worked out for me. Naturally I felt a little bit self-conscious about going along to something new on my own but everyone in the group made me feel most welcome from the start. It all seemed strange at first, new steps and movements which everybody else knew how to do, whilst I got them all wrong or so it felt to me, but nobody bothered about that and before long I soon picked up the routines too. I did tell the class instructors why I was going, what I hoped to achieve and my own health background. With this knowledge the instructors kept a close eye on me to make sure I was comfortable and gave me a few discreet tips and support after classes which was very encouraging. I find the classes to be fun and relaxing, a great way to assist in looking after your health needs both mentally and physically. I am so pleased that I joined Shenley Leisure Centre, if you are not sure then all I can suggest is that you come along and have a free trial lesson, I am so pleased that I did.’ John Petrie
John Petrie, Aerobics customer
New Smith Machine Coming Soon
A new addition to the fitness room coming in early 2024 The smith machine will be replacing the current Back Extension. A versatile piece of equipment designed for weight training. Its hallmark feature is the fixed barbell, allowing vertical movement solely along a guided track. This apparatus offers a controlled environment for various exercises, particularly beneficial for beginners or those recovering from injuries. The Smith machine's versatility is evident in its application across multiple muscle groups. It accommodates a spectrum of exercises, such as squats, bench presses, lunges, and shoulder presses. Its fixed path aids in stabilizing movements, supporting proper form and reducing the risk of injury while lifting heavier weights. Its inclusion in a fitness routine depends on individual preferences, fitness levels, and specific training objectives. www.shenleyleisure.org.uk
Personal Trainer Profile
Charlotte Hi! I’m Charlotte, a PT here at Shenley Leisure Centre. My passion is to help people; to change/improve their mental health as well as their physical and giving people the tools and knowledge to get started on their own fitness journey- building confidence to achieve your personal goals. Getting fit and healthy does not have to be complicated or punishment. Let me show you how!
Specialities: Building confidence Weight loss/ weight gain Muscle gain Qualifications: Level 3 personal Trainer Level 2 Gym Instructor Boxercise Instructor
Price Guide 2023
Here are some of the Clubs/Groups we host at SLC CFDA Shenley Jujitsu Club CMK Shotokan Karate CMK Squash Harlequins Trampoline Club Jill Foster Dance Centre KMDT (Krav Maga) Shenley Church End Preschool Milton Keynes Junior Badminton Club Mk 50+ Badminton Club Dance Fanatix Bollywood Dance Shenley Boasters Squash Emerson Valley FC Taidokhan Aikido Shenley Squash Club Temple Martial Arts Opa-cize Dance Club What's the Drama Loughton Lodgers Badminton Club MK Bucks Korfball Club Shenley Badminton Club Shakti Dance School Shenley FC Tuesday 60+ Bingo Group Vi-Kare Sen Group Little Kickers
For more details about some of these clubs please visit shenleyleisure.org.uk/clubs/ or to enquire about availability for space or to have your club details on our website please email blockbookings@shenleyleisurecentre.co.uk
Sports Acheiver of the Year 2023 pictures from 5th December. As mentioned earlier in the issue, the annual Sport Achiever of the Year awards were held in Denbigh school at the beginning of December. Shenley Leisure Centre was well represented. Sam Jacobson, Female Here are some of the Coach of the Year, from pictures, well done to Shenley Jujitsu Club. everyone involved.
Male Coach of the Year collected on behalf of Jace Wilkes.
Darren Goode, Volunteer of the Year, from Shenley Jujitsu Club.
Sports Acheiver of the Year 2023 pictures from 5th December.
Our very own Livvy Clarke along side some her enthusiastic customers (Livvy’s Lovelies) from her Forever Fit class. Jill Foster Dance Centre students showcasing a rendition of ‘when I grow up’ from All photos can be viewed at sportmk.co.uk/sportsachiever/saoty-2023.html Matilda.
Equipment for hire & sale
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE/HIRE MITRE FOOTBALL – £12.00 FEATHERED SHUTTLECOCK SINGLE – £3.50 FEATHERED SHUTTLECOCK 12 PACK – £25.00 PLASTIC SHUTTLECOCK SINGLE – £2.00 PLASTIC SHUTTLECOCK 6 PACK – £9.99 RACKET GRIPS – £3.00 RED DOT BALL – £3.00 SINGLE DOT BALL – £3.20 DOUBLE DOT BALL – £3.30 GRIPS – £3.00 STANDARD TABLE TENNIS PADDLE – £5.00 PRO TABLE TENNIS PADDLE – £12.00 YOU CAN ALSO HIRE SQUASH, TABLE TENNIS AND BADMINTON RACKETS FROM £2 A PAIR www.shenleyleisure.org.uk
Sportsmens Rest Information
Upcoming 2024 Entertainment
February
April
Fri 2nd, Sounds Cool Fri 5th, The Dilemma Disco/Karaoke from from 8pm. Free. 8pm. Fri 12th, Sounds Cool Fri 9th, Disco/Karaoke from 8pm. SKAvengers from 8pm. Monday Night Free
March
Quiz Dates
8th & 15th Jan 12th & 19th Feb 11th & 18th March 8th & 15th April
Sat 2nd, This Happy Breed from 8pm. Free. Fri 8th, Sounds Cool Disco/Karaoke from 60+ Bingo Group 8pm. Every Tuesday from 13.30
www.shenleyleisure.org.uk
Sportsmens Rest Information
New Discounted Drinks Times
These drinks are available at the bar or from reception.
www.shenleyleisure.org.uk
Included in the next issue -Update on Sports Hall & Gym re-opening. -Fitness room equipment teaching points including the new Smith Machine. -Healthy, energising recipes.
Advertising If anyone is interested in advertising, whether a club, regular user or business please get in touch or to leave any feedback please email enquiries@shenleyleisurecenre.co.uk. If you are a club and do not have your clubs details on our website please also email and provide a brief description to blockbookings@shenleyleisurecenre.co.uk.
Contact us Shenley Leisure Centre Burchard Crescent, Shenley Church End, Milton Keynes MK5 6HF 01908 502488 www.shenleyleisure.org.uk www.bookings.shenleyleisure.org.uk enquiries@shenleyleisurecentre.co.uk
Thanks to Hepi and the staff for putting this leaflet together.
www.shenleyleisure.org.uk