After 20 years in Littleport serving the community, Andy decided to set up home in Lutterworth as landlord of a pub instead of applying for a post at the new leisure sports complex due to open its doors in September.

Ely Standard: Saturday March 4 Littleport Leisure Centre staff, members, family, friends and supporters said their final goodbyes in a farewell bash for their present manager Andy Rutterford. After 20 years in Littleport serving the community, Andy decided to set up home in Lutterworth as landlord of a pub. Pictured is the centre's bar and catering staff at the farewell party.Saturday March 4 Littleport Leisure Centre staff, members, family, friends and supporters said their final goodbyes in a farewell bash for their present manager Andy Rutterford. After 20 years in Littleport serving the community, Andy decided to set up home in Lutterworth as landlord of a pub. Pictured is the centre's bar and catering staff at the farewell party. (Image: Archant)

“It is an end of an era, but I just hope that the new leisure centre will continue to generate that community spirit which the old sports centre has prided itself on.

“Not forgetting the many private groups including the bikers, the caravan fanatics, classic car aficionados to yearly fun day events, and the ever popular dog shows that I hope will be kept going because it does bring people into this ever growing village,” said Andy, who along with assistant and reception manager, Susan Day, bar manager Terry Thornhill and fitness instructor and recreational assistant Jamie Spalding are the longest serving employees with a good 20 years and more under their belts.

Elaine Ellis, Littleport Leisure Centre trustee and secretary, who has seen many changes throughout her 14 year stint was delighted with Saturday evening’s turnout.

She said: “I am so pleased that people have come out and shown their support for Andy Rutterford. It is true that Andy went beyond the call of duty, even putting his own money into the centre because he wanted it to succeed.

“We are all getting older and therefore change is inevitable, but I just want to wish Andy and his family well in his new venture in life.”

Praise was also given to the hardworking bar and catering staff who help out at all the centre’s events like quiz nights, bingo, karaoke, plus charity nights which includes the forthcoming disco for Cancer Research UK scheduled for Saturday March 18 from 7.30pm.