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Reddish gym nets visit from Ronaldo

Exclusive by Robert Dawson
1/10/2008

HEADS were turned as the world’s most famous footballer wandered into a gym in Reddish.

The Portuguese ace took a break from dazzling crowds with his silky step-overs to film a television advert at the Kingfisher Health Club in Houldsworth Mill.

And despite all the fame and fortune, Ronaldo was not too busy to pose for a photo with gym owners Alan and Julie Marsh.

Alan said: "It was fantastic to have Ronaldo at the gym. He is a nice guy and a real gentleman. Everyone was happy to have the best footballer in the world here. I have to sit on the fence, because we have both United and City fans here, but I think even the City fans were amazed that such a mega-star was in the gym. The girls especially were very excited, including my wife. Just because he’s someone who you would normally only see on television."

It was also a very special day for youngster Matthew Daly, who plays for United’s Academy, after meeting his hero face to face.

He said: "My favourite players are Rooney and Ronaldo and it was great to meet my hero."

The Kingfisher Health Club was chosen as the set for the advert after the Portuguese production crew scoured the region for a suitable location. The gym had to be shut down while the advert was being filmed but Alan said he was happy to accommodate United’s number seven.

He has also donated the proceeds from the day to charities including the Alzheimer’s Society and Cancer Research UK.

Alan said: "There was about 50 production people here and it caused a fair amount of disruption but the day went really well.  The production crew looked at about 10 different locations in Manchester but they really liked the space here and the quality of the building. The brickwork gives it a character that you can’t find in many other gyms. It’s got a real mill feel to it.

He added: "It is a prestigious thing to happen to the club to have such a huge star here. It created a fantastic buzz about the place. It was a pleasure to help and also proves that our club has a great deal to offer."

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