Petrov bounces back at new trampoline arena

STILIYAN Petrov was guest of honour at the official opening of the new Jump In Warwick trampoline arena on Saturday.

The former Aston Villa player is pictured left with Jordan St Germain, centre, and Chris Wall, both of whom are managers at Jump In.

The arena opened at the start of the month, but last weekend was its VIP opening. Former heavyweight boxing champion of the world, Frank Bruno, was the guest of honour on Sunday.

Stiliyan, who lives in Lapworth, recently announced he is back in training with the aim of returning to football, having been forced out of the game after being diagnosed with leukaemia in 2013.

He is now in remission and has been training with Aston Villa’s under 21 side.

And after a poor Premier League season which saw Stiliyan’s former club relegated to the Championship, he had some friendly advice for the squad.

Stiliyan said: “I have two boys and will be bringing them here for their birthdays — I think the Villa team should come here as well for an hour or two!

“This facility is good for people of all ages and can be enjoyed whatever the weather is like.”

Jump In Warwick is the company’s second such site, creating 70 jobs. It is in Hermes Close.

See July’s Focus magazine for a full interview with Stiliyan about his battle with leukaemia, his charity work and his bid to play professional football again.