Sir Alex opens new Mere spa

Manchester United FC manager Sir Alex Ferguson officially opened the new £5.5m health club and spa at Mere Golf & Country Club in Knutsford, Cheshire.

Sir Alex was joined by The Mere's owner and chief executive, Mark Boler, and co-owner Gary Corbett to launch the new facilities.

Ferguson said: "I was honoured to officially open the new health club and spa at The Mere. It is a momentous occasion for the club and the facilities are truly stunning – the best in Cheshire."

The health club and spa is the first phase of a £15m refurbishment to extend the Knutsford health resort. Pochin Construction was awarded with the contract to carry out the work in two phases. The project involved the conversion and extension of an existing stable block to form a new spa, swimming pool and leisure facility.

Boler added: "The Mere has been a leading leisure venue in Cheshire for over 75 years and we have invested heavily in the new health club and spa to offer something unique for those living locally. The new facilities offer the very best spa experience in the North West, coupled with an exceptional five star service for which The Mere is renowned."

Pochin is building an extension with 81 bedrooms in the second phase. This phase involves the demolition of the old leisure area and will involve the refurbishment of a large portion of the existing building.

The second phase is scheduled for completion by February 2012.