Epsom's Rainbow Leisure Centre narrowly beat tough national competition to be voted the best in Britain, after nearly three months of rigorous judging from top industry experts.

The results were announced at a tense national awards ceremony, which took place at Telford International Centre on 13th July 2011 and saw finalists from across the UK battle it out for the leisure industry crown.

The Fitness Industry Association (FIA) FLAME Awards are notoriously tough and the Rainbow Leisure Centre was pitted against strong entries from other finalists; Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre, Bury St. Edmunds Leisure Centre and Ponds Forge International Sports Centre before attending the nail biting Awards Dinner - where the winner was announced.

As part of the judging process the Centre has had to undergo stringent assessments, including a site visit from a panel of assessors.

The final stage of judging took place last month, with an independent market research company conducting an in depth customer satisfaction survey.

The fantastic feedback given by The Rainbow's customers saw the centre snatch victory ahead of the other finalists. Simon Sen, Rainbow Leisure Centre Partnership Manager said: "We couldn't be more delighted that our efforts and those of our team members have been recognised, particularly having been up against such tough competition from across the country.

"The judging process was really tough, it looked at how the centre runs operationally, how it is managed and what visitors think of the centre and its staff. The fact that we've been recognised by experts within the leisure industry and told that we are the very best centre in the UK is absolutely fantastic."

David Stalker, CEO, Fitness Industry Association said: "Congratulations! Attracting a record number of submissions and with more awards up for grabs than ever before, this year's entries were of a calibre we should all be proud. Rainbow Leisure showed the attributes of a true winner - they will now benefit from what has become a great accolade. Well done!"

Councillor Jan Mason, Chairman of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council's Leisure Committee added: "Everyone here at Epsom & Ewell Borough Council are delighted that The Rainbow Leisure Centre has been voted the best Leisure Centre in Britain.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff for their hard work in putting The Rainbow Leisure Centre on the map - it's a real accolade for the Borough."

The Rainbow Leisure Centre is owned by Epsom & Ewell Council and was opened in 2003. The Borough Council invested £8m in rebuilding the Centre, to ensure that first-rate leisure facilities are accessible for the local community. It is managed by GLL and includes a sports hall, 25m pool, 120-station gym and indoor bowling hall.