THESE are the first pictures from inside Haslingden’s new £275,000 climbing facility that could bring ‘real benefit to the town’.

Part of the sports hall at Haslingden Sports Centre is being transformed into Grip & Go, a facility for families and young people.

Grip & Go will feature a variety of themed climbing activities, from the ‘Leap Of Faith’ to aerial stepping stones.

Most of the 18 walls have now been installed and work will start this week on a 30-seater café.

Ken Masser, of Rossendale Leisure Trust, said: “Things are really starting to take shape and we can’t wait to open to the public.

“So far 17 climbing walls have been installed and we are on course to open in time for the summer holidays.

“The walls look incredible and I’m sure everyone will be blown away by the transformation.

“We wanted to create something that was fresh and exciting and now we can start to visualise what the end result will look like, we are absolutely convinced Grip & Go is going to be a huge hit with the people of Rossendale and beyond.”

Grip & Go is set to open on July 18.

Cllr Peter Evans, a local ward councillor, said: “I think this will be a big help to Haslingden and could prove to be very popular with young people and adults alike.

“Climbing is a growing sport and this is a fairly unique idea, there aren’t many climbing walls about so it could attract people from far and wide.

“I think it is a superb idea and it could bring a real benefit to the town.”

Grip & Go will be suitable for adults and children aged four and over.