A NEW business is flexing its muscles in Stroud town centre.

James Hilton, a former corporate professional turned personal trainer, has opened a fitness studio in his home town at Stroud House in Russell Street.

It follows 15 years in London during which time he found himself becoming increasingly unhappy which led to a return to the Five Valleys.

Stroud News and Journal: James Hilton has opened a fitness studio in Stroud House in Russell StreetJames Hilton has opened a fitness studio in Stroud House in Russell Street (Image: Newsquest)

“If you had asked me five years ago what I would be doing today, opening a gym in Stroud wouldn't have crossed my mind. But here I am, and it's truly remarkable," he said.

“I work almost exclusively with people over 50 years old.

"I specialise in helping people overcome injury, and chronic pain but my sweet spot is helping people find enjoyment in exercise.

“I understand the challenges of ageing and I have meticulously selected the equipment and crafted the environment to address this."

In addition, the studio has a filming space where James plans to produce content for his online service Jim’s Gym.