CELEBRATIONS were held at two sports centres in Worcester after being told they were ranked top of the league in a UK-wide evaluation by quality watchdogs.

The Nunnery Wood Sports Complex in Spetchley Road and St John's Sports Centre in Swanpool Walk scored almost 80 per cent in a joint assessment by Quest.

The score ranks them joint-top in the UK for dual use' centres - beating off competition from 129 others.

Both centres have been described as highly commended' by Quest, which compiled the results by going on mystery visits.

Alan New, general manager at the centres, said: "Everyone at both sites has worked extremely hard to provide good facilities, an extensive range of activities and exceptional customer care.

"This score and result is reflective of the continual quality of service we have come to expect from the teams at both facilities."

Earlier this year, Nunnery Wood Sports Complex and St John's Sports Centres received Investor In People Status (IIP) - a national standard bestowed on groups making staff the focal point of an organisation.

"This is a ringing endorsement of the way both centres are managed and is a boost for customers who can use the sites safe in the knowledge that we offer a high range of quality services and activities," said Mr New.

The report by Quest said the centres were "well maintained and with a comprehensive mix of facilities and activities that are appreciated and valued by the community."

The news is also a big boost for the city council, which owns and manages both sports centres.

The last time the centres were ranked by Quest was back in June 2005, when they were given a rating of 75 per cent and placed among the front runners.

Although this is the fourth inspection in a row where the centres have been placed among the best, it is the first time they have been placed joint-top of the pile.