PEAK Physique, Swindon's newest gym, has opened, with the brains and brawn behind the project promising to help reach out to people with drug problems in the town.

Paul Baxendale (pictured) is a 38-year-old former UK number two competitive body-builder and has just returned to his home town after spending five years living in Sydney, Australia.

He said: "While I was out in Oz I spent a lot of time working as a volunteer alcohol and drug worker, as well as running a food manufacturing factory. While we had a great lifestyle over there, I felt a real draw to come back to Swindon. It feels like home to me. I love what I do, combining my passion for body building with a business like this."

As a former competitive body builder, Mr Baxendale has experienced the prevalence of drugs in the sport and is determined to help people take a different path.

"As well as running the gym here, I am keen to use this centre as a place to reach out to people with drug problems.

"I have been in the fitness world for about 17 years and I realise that word of mouth is the most important thing to determine the success of a business like this. We have kitted the place out with all the latest equipment and we aim to cater for the serious end of the market."

Peak Physique Gym in Greenbridge Road will be open seven days a week.To find out more contact Mr Baxendale on Swindon 611808.