February Venue Circular

Venue Circular - newsletter - January 26 v4.pdf

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Download our February Venue Circular as a PDF or read all news articles below (mobile friendly option) - forthcoming news and events occurring at Venue 360.

Our Top Stories

Squash Reunion: Celebrating 30 Years on Court

With squash enjoying a resurgence at Venue 360 - thanks in part to Harpenden Squash Club now using our courts regularly - it felt like the perfect moment for our own long‑standing squash community to come together again. And on Friday 30th January, that’s exactly what happened.

The reunion was the idea of long‑time member and dedicated squash enthusiast Patrick Lawrence, who has been a familiar face on our courts for many years. As one of Venue 360’s most passionate ambassadors, Patrick suggested bringing together players from across the decades for an evening of memories, laughter, and reconnecting.

The Balcony Café Bar proved the ideal setting as past players gathered to share stories from over 30 years of squash at Venue 360. The evening had the feel of a “who’s who” of former club greats - some of whom now keep active in our gym rather than on the court, while others travelled from afar, including Dave Owen, who made the journey all the way from Cornwall to be part of the occasion.

“It was fantastic to see so many ex‑players here from over the years, and everyone seemed to have a great night,” said Patrick.

A huge thank you to all who attended and helped make the reunion such a memorable celebration of Venue 360’s squash heritage.

Events Round-Up

We enjoyed an extremely successful Christmas across both our Riverside Suite and the Balcony Café Bar.

Guests loved the contrast between a traditional three-course meal downstairs and a more relaxed, informal atmosphere upstairs.

Our casino tables were a huge hit, the photobooth proved popular as always, and we received fantastic feedback on the food throughout. With our DJs keeping the dancefloor full all night, it truly was a festive celebration to remember.

To register interest for Christmas 2026, please email our events team,

events@venue360.co.uk - we’d love to celebrate with you again.

Member Achievement Spotlight

Paulina Conquers HYROX Pro

Huge congratulations to Paulina, who recently completed the Women’s HYROX Pro Singles Challenge in an outstanding time of 1 hour and 23 minutes.

HYROX Pro is the ultimate elite-level event, demanding exceptional strength, endurance, and mental toughness. Paulina’s performance is an incredible achievement and a true inspiration to our Lifelines community.

Well done again, Paulina - an amazing accomplishment!

Farewell & Good Luck Martin

My wife, our two lovely Cockapoos, and I are moving to Norfolk, bringing an end to a very special chapter at Venue 360.

I joined back in 1995, when it was the Vauxhall Recreation Club, after being invited by then CEO (and neighbour) Neil Jackson. I started as a squash and gym member and when I felt too old for squash, I stuck with the gym. I was born in 1956 you work it out.

Over the years, I’ve met so many friendly, welcoming staff across the gym, Balcony Bar, office and reception — thank you all. Venue 360 has truly been my happy place, lifting my spirits through some challenging times, thanks to both the staff and the great members I’ve been lucky to call friends.

One memory that particularly stands out was many years ago with my best mate Vince. I was determined to lift my own body weight on the smith machine, so I asked Michael (Lifelines Manager), if it was possible. Without missing a beat, he said, “Only if you lose weight!” we all had a great laugh, well at least Vince and Michael did…

After training, the Balcony Bar Café is my go-to place to relax. I’m in the gym every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, followed by coffee, and most Wednesdays I enjoy lunch with my mate Chris Whiting in our usual spot. I also love catching up with the lads at 10am over coffee — plenty of laughs, life chats, and football debates.

As I move on, I hope I’m just as lucky to meet people as kind and welcoming as those here. Venue 360 will always hold a special place in my heart.

Thank you to all the staff, members, and friends past and present for the kindness and great memories — it’s truly appreciated.

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In Other News...

Say Hello to Faith

We’re delighted to introduce Faith, the newest member of our Hospitality Management Team. Faith joined us in November, just as we were gearing up for our busiest season of the year, and quickly became a valued part of the team during our Christmas Parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

With a real passion for planning and delivering memorable social events, Faith has settled in brilliantly, and we’re excited to see her grow with Venue 360. We’re especially looking forward to exploring her ideas and creative suggestions for both our Balcony Café Bar and upcoming events.

What’s New at the Balcony Café Bar

It’s that time of year again, and we’re starting to look for new additions to our Balcony Café menu. If you have any suggestions, please pop them into the suggestion box at Reception - we’d love to hear your thoughts.

While we explore new options, why not treat yourself to a hot drink and a toasted tea cake for just £3.95!

Upcoming Events

Venue 360 is proud to host a wide range of fantastic events throughout the year, from lively party nights to meaningful charity fundraisers. None of these events would be possible without the dedication of the volunteers and organisations who bring them to life.

Please note: most events are organised by third parties. For full event details and ticket information, please contact the event organisers directly.

February Fitness Challenge

3K or 5K Treadmill Run

Looking for a new goal this February? Take on our 3K or 5K running challenge and see how fast you can go! Simply select your chosen distance on the treadmill and get running. All times will be recorded on the score charts, so you can track your progress and compete with fellow members.

This challenge is a fantastic way to boost your fitness, push your pace, and aim to improve your times throughout the month - and beyond!

Personal Training at Lifelines

Need a little extra motivation or guidance with your training? Personal training could be just what you need to stay on track and reach your goals.

Our experienced Lifelines team members offer one-to-one personal training using a variety of techniques tailored to your needs. We currently have Rachel, Lisa, Joy, Connor, Raimond and Niyi available and taking on new clients.

If you’re interested, pick up a business card at Lifelines reception or speak to a member of the team for more information.

Facts on Fat

Fat often gets a bad reputation, but it plays an important role in a healthy, balanced diet. Choosing the right types of fat can help support healthy cholesterol levels, manage weight, and protect heart health.

Why your body needs fat:

• Provides energy

• Helps absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K

• Supports hormone production

• Supplies essential fatty acids the body cannot produce on its own

How much fat should you eat?

Around one third of your daily calories (no more than 35%) should come

from fat.

This equals approximately:

• Women: up to 70g of fat per day (based on 2,000 calories)

• Men: up to 95g of fat per day (based on 2,500 calories)

Remember, fat is calorie-dense - each gram contains 9 calories, more than double that of carbohydrates and protein, which provide about 4 calories per gram.

Exercise of the Month

TRX Workout

Why not give our 4-exercise TRX workout a try? The TRX is stored in the attachment box next to the Grappler and can be set up on one of the Olympic racks. If you need help, just ask an instructor to assist you.

Complete the following exercises with 20 seconds rest between each set:

• Chest Press – 3 × 10 reps

• Bicep Curl – 3 × 10 reps

• Rows – 3 × 10 reps

• Tricep Extension – 3 × 10 reps

A great full-upper-body workout that challenges strength and stability!

Say Hello to the Reccies!

You may see them around, but be sure to say hello to our Leisure Assistants - the Reccies! They play a key role during busy evening periods, ensuring sports bookings run smoothly, facilities are maintained to a high standard, and all customers are welcomed in a friendly and professional manner.

Thomas – “I’ve been working at Venue 360 now for around 3 years so I'm part

of the furniture. I also work full time during the week at Star Platforms and have been doing so since September.”

Lewis – “I’ve worked at Venue 360 for 2 years now. As well as this I also work for a tiling company. Working at Venue 360 has been an enjoyable experience as it allows me to work in a sport environment which is something I’ve always wanted to do.”

Cassidy – “I have worked here for 2 years and am currently working as a runner

for ITV.”

Oliver – “I have worked at Venue 360 as a Leisure Assistant for over 2 years and currently study Sports, Criminology and Digital Media.”

Archie – “I have been a Leisure Assistant now for 4 months and you may see my face in and around reception a little more as I help out on there also.”

Charlie – “I have been working at Venue for nearly half a year now. I am studying Level 3 Sports and Personal training at Oaklands college. This course will prepare me for a career in the fitness industry which I strive to work in.”

Charlie H – “I have been working at Venue 360 for 6 months. I am currently studying Civil Engineering at Barnfield College alongside my work here.”

Samuel – “I have been working at Venue 360 for 5 months now. I am currently studying Uniformed Services at Shuttleworth College with the hopes of becoming a firefighter in the future.”

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