Victoria's boutique gym is still in great shape

She opened VH Fitness in December 2015 after taking voluntary redundancy from her previous job at Lloyds Bank and was helped in her endeavour by a New Business Boost Grant from Calderdale Council.

The gym is based on Charles Street on the former site of Blockbuster Video.

VH Fitness is the only gym in Halifax to offer crèche facilities for the busier morning classes, and there is also a sling swing class where participants can hold their baby in a sling while they work out.

Victoria, who was born in Hipperholme and lives in Greetland, said: “My dream continues to be about educating people to make changes for life.

“By educating young people I hope future generations will be better prepared.

“Exercise and nutrition isn’t just about weight – it’s about health, it’s about sleeping better, it’s about better posture, more confidence, better moods.

“We have karate sessions in our studio, a group from Park Lane School training in the gym and we sponsor the under 12s football team Yorkshire Juniors.

“We have just shy of 300 members covering a wide demographic, with all age groups from 14 through to 76, all abilities and both male and female members and from all walks of life.”

Alison Farrell, studio manager, said: “I’ve worked in the fitness industry for over 23 years and been part of all the teams at all the gyms in Calderdale, probably twice over!

“I was excited and anxious when Victoria offered me the opportunity to join her team a year ago.

“But Victoria’s passion about fitness, nutrition and educating people made me say yes.

“We have amazing members and everyone knows everyone. We welcome new members all the time and before long they know everyone too.”