The Pickaquoy Centre, based in Kirkwall, Orkney won a gold award at the Health Club Awards as voted for by customers across the UK.

The awards are unique in the health industry as winners are decided by members of health clubs who are asked to complete a questionnaire rating their own club on the level of service, facilities and value for money.

More than half a million pieces of data were crunched from over 16,000 customers earlier this year.

Simon Brown, managing director of Awards For Business, which runs the scheme, said "Belonging to a good health club is a rewarding experience. Members probably spend more time there than they realise and it's become an integral part of their lifestyle.

"For the club it's not easy to get every aspect just right. It requires a lot of hard work from staff and a belief that members should have a great experience each time they visit. We maintain that clubs who truly offer the best service and experience are recognised and rewarded."

The exclusive event which took place at the Hilton Metropole Birmigham was attended by 200 guests from shortlisted clubs who learnt their fate from presenter Mark Durden-Smith.

Mark addressed the audience saying: "These awards are a true reflection of how well you are doing what you do, and whether you are providing Good Value for Money. Your members can be your harshest of critics. They're the front line, they experience your facilities and customer service on a daily basis and so they're in a unique position to assess your performance."

Mark Harrison, General Manager of The Pickaquoy Centre Trust, said "We are delighted and overwhelmed to have won this award we pride ourselves on providing a quality service that meets the needs of users, this is an important award as it is voted upon by the users. I would like to thank the customers who took the time to vote and the hard work and dedication of the staff."