Football star Ryan Giggs holds secret kickabout to launch new teens-only fitness studio

The former Manchester United midfielder treated a select group of lucky youngsters to a kickabout at The Zone, in Bolton Street, which aims to become the country's first teens-only fitness centre when it officially opens later this month.

The Welshman visited the studios on Friday for the secret training session, which was organised to thank a group of eager teenagers for signing up to become members almost a month before doors have opened.

Ryan, aged 41, said: "Exercise and keeping active is a great way to getting kids off the streets and doing something positive. I think the building is great and fully support what is being done here.

"The Zone is a great place that has been designed specifically with teenagers in mind. They can come just to have a kick about with their mates or learn to train, box, or dance, by some of the best in the business. Yes it’s fitness, but most important of all, it’s about keeping it fun."

The Zone has been founded by Carol Godby, who currently owns the drama workshop and management agency Linton management, and has worked with more than 60,000 young people since 1991.

The new facility is set to give teenagers a unique opportunity to be trained by elite athletes, including professional boxers, footballers, bodybuilders, MMA fighters, gymnasts and internationally renowned choreographers, who have worked with the likes of Taylor Swift and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini.

Carol said: "We're trying to create a fun fitness environment that gets teens energised and excited about exercise. How many teens would love to take hip hop class by a choreographer who has worked with Cheryl Fernandez-Versini?

"Or how many guys would want to train with a professional MMA fighter? Well, at The Zone we are delighted that we can offer our members this unique opportunity."

The Zone opens on Saturday September 26, with memberships and pay as you go packages both available.