Odyssey Health Club and Spa in Knebworth has been bought out by a staff member who has worked there for 20 years.

Odyssey has undergone a management buy-out, with managing director Stephen Aucott taking over ownership after 20 years of running the business.

Now with full control of Odyssey, Stephen says he plans to continue to invest in developing the club’s facilities and member experience.

It already boasts a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, outdoor tennis courts, state-of-the-art Technogym equipment, a newly-built relaxation room and café.

The buy-out was backed by business bank Allica Bank, which provided a £3 million loan to enable Stephen to complete the purchase.

The Covid-19 lockdown was an especially difficult period for the business, which saw membership dip by over 1,000 members. However, Stephen says membership has now returned to pre-pandemic levels.

"My team and I have been helping keep Knebworth fit and healthy for over two decades," explained Stephen. "This news means I can invest in expanding our offering and improving our members’ experience with a new sense of purpose. The next phase is already underway. 

"The past 20 years have definitely been an exciting journey.  Having the opportunity to take full control of the business presents us with an incredibly exciting future."