The leader of Dudley Council dropped by a ‘circus style’ fitness studio as part of the Made in Dudley Borough initiative.

The Jewels Academy on Queens Cross Business Park in Angel Street, Dudley, specialises in a wide range of alternative dance and exercise classes, including aerial hoops, silks and poles.

There are also circus skills classes for children where they can learn the foundations in flexibility, stage presence , conditioning, aerial silks and aerial hoop. Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said:

“It was fantastic to come to Jewels Academy and see such an alternative approach to fitness classes.

"Like so many businesses it was affected by the pandemic, but it’s great to see it open again and offering such an exciting range of classes, which I’m sure people of all ages come here to enjoy. I wish them all the very best for the future."

Councillor Patrick Harley was shown around the studio by co-owners Robyn Churchill and Jade Flash. The friends who used to train in Birmingham together set up The Jewels Academy in November 2017 to offer an alternative way for children and adults to get fit closer to home.

The studio offers classes throughout the week for people of all ages and abilities, from complete beginners through to professional performers. It also offers one-to-one lessons, group bookings and children’s parties. Robyn Churchill from The Jewels Academy said:

"Jade and I have been training together for years. It’s such an alternative, fun way to exercise we both decided we wanted to teach others and so set up our academy in Dudley.

"We love sharing our skills and our friendly classes leave people feeling energised and challenged, whatever their age and ability."

The visit was organised as part of the Made in Dudley borough initiative, which aims to celebrate and highlight the work of local businesses.