JOBS have been axed in a shake-up at a leading fitness company in Poole.

Twenty jobs losses have been announced at the Fitness First support centre in the town and elsewhere in the UK.

And a new boss has also been appointed at the firm's HQ in Willis Way near Fleetsbridge as the fitness chain - the second largest in the world - announced the changes.

The impact of the "restructuring" is still unclear, but in a statement Fitness First said around 20 roles were affected. The company runs more than 160 fitness clubs and gyms around the UK and Europe.

In a short statement the company said: "Fitness First Clubs announced a restructuring of its management to better focus on its key objectives. Approximately 20 roles at the support centre in Poole and elsewhere in the UK are impacted by this restructuring.

"As far as possible alternative positions within the business will be offered to affected employees."

The company also announced Peter Boddy, formerly of Megabowl Group, is its new managing director and will take up his post from October 11. He will be based in Poole.

Mike Metcalf, chief executive of Fitness First Group, said he had "valuable management experience, as well as great personal qualities".

First published: October 5