A NORTH Ayrshire fitness trainer is going "back where it all started" after taking on a new premises in Kilwinning.

Claire Houston, of Motiv8 Fitness, announced this week that she would be taking on the old Erskine Church hall in Kilwinning - after the building was marketed by the Church of Scotland back in May.

It is an exciting prospect for Claire, who first started teaching some 13 years ago - in Kilwinning.

She has worked continuously since then, including launching Motiv8 Fitness, and has been operating in Stevenston over the past few years.

Motiv8 had previously been housed in Portland Place in the town, though Claire had to take the decision to close those doors at the end of 2022.

Since then Claire has been operating in smaller spaces around the area - though says she is delighted to be heading back to her own larger premises.

She commented: "After closing old Motiv8 because of the gas and electricity going through the roof everyone including myself has missed it.

"It wasn’t until I had closed the doors that I realised what Motiv8 actually provided to so many people!

"During this period of time I have had a smaller space for personal training and small groups but we have outgrown the space fast and this was been an opportunity I can’t miss.

"I started out in Kilwinning 13 years ago, when I first went into the community to teach, so I'm going back where it all first started and I can't wait to do that again and provide so much more.

"It's everything I am passionate about. I am so nervous and scared but also very excited."

Claire is now in the process of getting her new location in Garden Square ready to go.

She intends to have her final week at her current location to be that which begins on August 19 - then it's all systems go in Kilwinning.

She hopes to have a full class timetable, for once the move is completed, prepared and online by the end of this month, before the classes themselves get underway on September 1.

All going to plan, Claire also intends to host an open day at the venue on Saturday, September 7, where those interested can come along from 10am-12pm to find out more, "have a nosey", try a workout and get to chat with her.

Claire added: "There will be monthly community events socially within motiv8 as that is what they have all been missing alongside the fitness - everyone loves the social side that comes with meeting new people with same interests.

"The hall is perfect, the location is great, and the Kilwinning community have reached out to offer help which is so kind.

"I hope everyone is excited and thank you all for always supporting us."

For more information, you can find this on the Motiv8 Fitness Facebook page or via the business website at https://motiv8.fitness/.