Dave's Gym and Fitness Centre in Northwich celebrates 50 years

Dave’s Gym and Fitness Centre is holding a charity day in March to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.

To date, the gym – located in Millbank, off Station Road – has raised thousands of pounds for charitable causes since it was set up by Dave Mather 50 years ago.

Dave’s son Neil said: “We have always believed in giving something back to charities.

“To date, with the help of our members, we have raised more than £50,000.

Dave and Joyce Mather (Image: Dave's Gym)

“This March sees us celebrate our 50th year.

“To celebrate our achievement, we are holding a charity day on Sunday, March 12 to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.

“We are asking our members to get sponsorship to perform a challenge in the gym.

“For example, you could lift the weight of a double decker bus (approximately 27,888lbs, therefore lifting 200lbs 140 times).

Joyce and Neil Mather in the 1980s (Image: Dave's Gym)

“You could cycle up and down Everest four times from base camp to summit (one trip is 25 miles, therefore 100 miles in total on a spin bike).

“Or you could design your own challenge, maybe set yourself a target of press ups, chins, curls, squats, deadlifts etc.

“Be inventive, make it personal, do it alone or with a friend.

“We are also running competitions throughout the day with prizes for the winners.

“It’s a £10 donation to Cancer Research to enter.

Neil Mather (Dave's son), Billy Mather (Dave's grandson) and Karen Mather (Dave's daughter) (Image: Dave's Gym)

“Families and friends are welcome to support you in your chosen activity and to enjoy an open day where you can show them where you train.”

There will also be a three-hour mega class, and a goody bag for everyone taking part.

Dave's Gym is now run by three generations of Mather's; Dave and Joyce Mather; Dave's daughter Karen Mather; Dave's son Neil Mather and wife Kath Mather; Dave's grandsons Billy Mather and Lee Holmes.

Dave’s Gym was founded in two rooms behind a youth club in Winnington in the 1970s, supported by Roberts Bakery, friends, and enthusiasts, with just a few weights, benches and dumbbells.

Dave Mather in the 1970s (Image: Dave's Gym)

It was originally open three evenings a week for men only and it cost 20p to train.

In the 1980s, a ladies night was introduced and the gym continued to expand with more equipment, changing rooms and showers.

In 1993, the gym moved to its current location and was expanded in the 2000s.

For more information, visit Dave’s Gym on Facebook or search for its website.

Karen Mather in the 1980s (Image: Dave's Gym)