CHILDREN, teens and adults alike are going to be jumping for joy when they visit St Helens' latest attraction, the £1million Air Factory.

After nearly four months in the making, Air Factory is set to open in St Michaels Road, Lea Green, on September 26 - and the owners gave the Star a sneak preview tour around the centre.

The Star's photos show the trampolines - of which there are 100, including three Olympic-sized ones - ninja warrior obstacle course, battle beams, foam pits and the view over the centre from the first floor cafe.

The 12,000 sq ft Air Factory, which has created 25 full-time and 40 part-time jobs, will open seven days a week, until late.

During the tour, Chris Shi, of Air Factory, said: "We are launching on September 26, with the mayor and mayoress coming along to cut a ribbon.

"For the first week, visits will be free - but they have to be booked online in advance."

Demonstrating the attractions, Mr Shi challenged Star reporter Paula Morris to a Gladiator-style jousting battle on the beams.

After a valiant effort, it was lack of balance that sent the reporter plunging into the foam pit.

Mr Shi said: "We have a grid of trampolines so you can stay on your own trampoline or bounce from one to the other if its not busy.

"We have ramp-shaped trampolines and bouncy walls too so people can try out different stunts.

"We're really looking forward to getting people through the doors - and we're just putting the finishing touches to the equipment and decor."

The cafe, with windows overlooking the pits, will serve paninis, sandwiches, children's lunchboxes and drinks including freshly ground coffee.

Mr Shi added: "We chose St Helens as it is an excellent central location in the North West. We've worked closely with the local council and future plans could include events held with Saints and The Steve Prescott Foundation."

The attraction has capacity for 120 users at a time, with sessions costing from £7 and lasting one hour.

Air Factory will be open seven days a week from 10am to 9pm Sunday to Thursday and 10am to 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

To book online or for more information, go to airfactory.co.uk. Further details can be found by visiting Facebook: @airfactory.uk Twitter: @airfactory_uk.