Andy Devaney
If you’re looking for proof that community spirit and a touch of luxury can coexist under one roof, look no further than The Cove Spa at Move Altrincham. The newly opened wellness haven — part of Trafford Leisure’s multi-million-pound transformation — has officially welcomed its first guests: twenty remarkable women honoured for their selflessness, resilience, and service to the people of Trafford.
The women were the winners of Trafford Leisure’s Altrincham and Trafford Women of Inspiration campaign, launched for International Women’s Day earlier this year. Their prize? An exclusive day of pampering at The Cove Spa — a reward not just for what they do, but for who they are: the beating heart of their community.
Chosen from more than 50 nominations, the final 20 were selected by a judging panel that included Trafford Leisure CEO Jo Cherrett, Councillor Joanne Harding, Suze Townley of MOST Bakery fame, and Jessica McGarry, CEO Support at Trafford Leisure. The result was a line-up that reads like a masterclass in courage and compassion.
Among them, Laura Borthwick, who has channelled personal tragedy into a mission for change, raising money for the Samaritans and campaigning tirelessly for mental health awareness after the loss of her sister.
Debbie Boland, a breast cancer survivor turned BooBee Ambassador, has helped raise more than £170,000 for the new Breast Screening Academy at Wythenshawe Hospital. And Charlotte Percy, a Family Law Solicitor at Lund Bennett Law Altrincham, was recognised for her charitable efforts and for championing female representation in the legal field.
“It was such a privilege to be recognised and to celebrate alongside so many incredible women making a difference in our community,” said Charlotte. “My visit to The Cove Spa at Move Altrincham was a wonderful experience – a chance to pause, reflect and feel uplifted. I work for a business in Trafford, and we see every day how important it is for people to feel supported during life’s big challenges. It was inspiring to be part of an event that shines a light on this resilience and achievement.”
The winners were treated to complimentary ELEMIS treatments, a glass of fizz, indulgent treats from MOST Bakery, and spa gifts to take home. Between the heated loungers and herbal saunas, there was also something more profound in the air — a shared sense of gratitude and pride.
“We loved reading all the entries to our Altrincham and Trafford Women of Inspiration campaign,” said Jo Cherrett, CEO of Trafford Leisure. “It was so difficult to choose our winners. These remarkable women embody the spirit of our community and what better way to celebrate their incredible contributions than by welcoming our winners as some of our first guests to experience the luxury wellness facilities at The Cove.
Move Altrincham represents our commitment to creating healthier and more connected communities across Trafford, and these women are already leading by example in supporting and empowering those around them.”
At 500 square metres, The Cove Spa isn’t just a facility — it’s a statement. One of the few public-sector spas in the UK, it aims to make wellness accessible to everyone. Inside, guests can unwind in four treatment rooms offering ELEMIS facials and body therapies, enjoy Mii manicures and pedicures, or simply melt into the thermal suite supplied by Sauna360. The vitality pool bubbles away beside sensory showers, an ice fountain, and Himalayan salt saunas — the kind of details that make even the most seasoned spa-goer raise an approving eyebrow.
Open seven days a week, The Cove offers everything from reflexology and Reiki to teen treatments and beauty salon services, with spa days starting at £55 and treatments from £40.
As Cherrett puts it: “This is the second Trafford Leisure site to open under the new Move brand and we are proud to redefine what community wellness looks and feels like. The spa sector can often feel exclusive and inaccessible.
By offering accessible treatments and spa experiences, The Cove is helping us reimagine community leisure wellness, creating a space where physical activity and relaxation seamlessly come together for our local residents.”
If the launch is anything to go by, The Cove Spa isn’t just a place to relax — it’s a quiet revolution in self-care, right in the heart of Trafford.
