WOMEN who want to keep trim but do not have time for the gym can drop into a new ladies only venue in Trowbridge.

Jonathan Simmonds, 34, and his wife Jessica, 28, have brought a revolutionary new exercise concept called Curves to west Wiltshire.

Mr Simmonds said: "It is the first fitness and weight loss facility dedicated to providing affordable, one-stop exercise and nutritional information for women."

Mr and Mrs Simmonds discovered the Curves plan, which condenses a one-and-a-half hour workout into half-an-hour, while visiting family in the USA. They decided to open their own gym at The Mill complex, next to The Shires shopping centre.

Mr Simmonds said: "We aim to provide a personal service in relaxed and comfortable surroundings, where women feel at home."

Women book in for an introductory session and, if they then decide to join, can use the facilities as often as they wish.

A trainer is on hand to give information and advice and the programme combines aerobic exercise and weight training in half hour sessions.

The equipment is based on hydraulic resistance ensuring less chance of injury than traditional gym equipment.

Mrs Simmonds said: "It means you have little if any soreness afterwards.

"It is great for everyone. People with arthritis, or high blood pressure or who are overweight and might not want to use a gym can really benefit."

The centre opened last week and has already generated a great deal of interest among women.

"People have been really interested by the machines and really enthusiastic."

The plan is not just aimed at those who want to lose weight but is also good for people who want to tone up.

The emphasis is on reducing body fat levels while building more muscle, but by toning rather than bulking up.

Curves is the fastest growing fitness franchise in the world, with more than 8,000 clubs across the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, The Caribbean, south American and New Zealand.

The centre is open between 9am and 12pm and 4pm and 7pm but there are plans to extend the opening hours as membership grows.