Former model launches studio

The Bloomsbury Clinic in The Barn, Newmans Garden, offers a range of beauty treatments and now has launched its first studio for popular fitness activities like pilates, yoga and Zumba.

With the help of her children, managing director Debby Holmes Smith converted a rundown storage room into a bright and spacious studio.

“It was all black and falling down. There was mildew and holes in the ceiling,” said Debby.

“With the help of my children we were able to transform it within a week.”

Five of Debby’s sons stepped up to the challenge of turning the redundant space into something that everyone can use.

“It was a real family effort and it’s got eight coats of white paint in there,” she added.

Starting out as a Bluebell Girl at the Lido in Paris at the age of 16, Debby later became a Pretty Polly leg model and did the catwalks of Europe as a top fashion model.

Starting her own model agency at just 18-years-old, Debby eventually moved into the realm of beauty and fitness after having her children.

“I moved to Steyning in 2010 and started Bloomsbury. We cover all beauty treatments and complimentary therapy, like acupuncture, chiropractic treatments, sport therapy - really everything, as well as all tradition beauty treatments and now fitness.”

With many classes already hosting after just a few weeks of opening, Debby said she is thrilled with its rapid success.

“I’ve had so much support from all the local businesses - a lovely bouquet was sent from the florist and Flicker-Rose helped with the furniture.

“I feel more of a landmark in the town now because some people are coming here four days a week for classes as well as using the clinic.”

For more details visit www.bloomsbury-clinic.com, call 01903 879 721, or email [email protected].