Sheffield Utd FC kicks Staines leisure club in to touch

Sheffield United Football Club has sold health and fitness club The Thames Club, Staines, to a company funded by Downing Protected Venture Capital Trusts, for £4.5m.   The deal netted the football club £700,000 gross profit and forms part of its strategy of refocusing its leisure operations around the South Yorkshire area.   The Thames Club is a freehold property managed by health club operator Steven Lewis. It comprises 31,300 sq ft over ground and first floors.   The club also includes Staines Town Football Club’s ground.   Jason Rockett, chief executive, Sheffield United, said: “The sale has realised a significant return on our investment. Thames was part of the diversification of our off-the-field business through leisure and property.”   Lawrence Telford, director, Coffer Corporate Leisure, said: “This was a great opportunity for Downing and Steve Lewis to acquire a rare freehold health club in a prime location and demonstrates that despite the general financial market difficulties, quality leisure assets are still very much in demand.”   Coffer Corporate Leisure advised Downing; Christie & Co advised Sheffield United. annabel.dixon@rbi.co.uk