May the fitness force be with you – Croydon Council’s new outdoor gym is being named the ‘David Prowse Gym’ after the late Darth Vader actor.
The new name will be unveiled at a themed event at Addiscombe Recreation Ground on Monday 4 May – International Star Wars Day – from 11am -1pm.
Prowse was an Addiscombe resident for nearly 60 years, before he died in 2020. As well as acting in the original Star Wars trilogy and numerous other films, he was a British heavyweight weightlifting champion and bodybuilder and an advocate for physical activity.
Addiscombe outdoor gym was designed in collaboration with local exercise group Croydon Calisthenics and residents. It is one of five outdoor gyms in Croydon, helping residents to stay healthy by having access to fitness facilities for free.
Ruth Hutchinson, director of public health at Croydon Council, said: “We are delighted that the David Prowse Gym will be named after a local legend and someone who promoted the benefits of keeping fit and being active.
“Just five minutes of exercise a day can lead to improvements in mood and self-esteem, so why not come down to the opening or visit another one of our borough’s outdoor gyms.”
Deborah Shaw, Addiscombe and Shirley Park Residents’ Association, said: “We are celebrating a local and national hero, who believed in the benefits of health and fitness and community. The new commemorative board creates a permanent legacy for David as a family man, neighbour and celebrates his sense of fun.
“Attending the event are Star Wars re-enactors, the Croydon Calisthenics team showing off their skills on the new gym equipment in Addiscombe Recreation Ground and a chance for fans to hear stories about David from his family; finally topped off with a Stars Wars-themed costume competition. What could be more enjoyable for a few hours on International Star Wars Day…May 4th!”
