Community gym users 'gutted' by closure

Customers at a Peterborough gym said they were still coming to terms with the announcement that it would close in a few weeks' time.

The YMCA gym in Bretton will shut on 4 May after the owners said "rising operational costs and increased competition" had made it unviable. The charity's gym in Cambridge will also close on the same day.

Susana Ramirez, who has been a member in Bretton for two years, said it would be "a great loss to the area", while gym user Shaun Allen said he was "gutted" by the news.

The YMCA Trinity Group said it remained dedicated to its core mission of supporting young people and communities through its wider programmes.

Mr Allen, 52, said he would sometimes visit the gym five days a week to help him with his conditions, which included hip and knee replacements and heart disease.

He said he would not be able to access the same facilities elsewhere and he suffered with blackouts, making him unable to drive.

"It's a community gym, everyone knows each other. If you've had a bad day, you go in, have a chat and a laugh. Even the staff are good friends," he said.

Ms Ramirez, 64, said it was devastating to hear that her gym was closing.

"I have been to a lot of gyms and this is a special place that takes care of customers with various needs, people with Down's syndrome, cerebral palsy, disabled users, pensioners, people recovering from accidents," she said.

She added there were "no other alternatives" for many people and that the YMCA gym felt like "home" for customers.

YMCA Trinity Group said "sustained financial challenges" had made the "continued operation unsustainable".

"Despite ongoing efforts to maintain the facilities, rising operational costs and increased competition in the local fitness market have made it increasingly difficult to keep the gyms viable," a spokesperson said.

"We understand this decision will impact our members, staff and the wider community, and we are committed to supporting those affected throughout this transition.

"Our priority is to ensure our employees and gym users receive the necessary guidance and support.

"YMCA Trinity Group remains dedicated to its core mission of supporting young people and communities through our wider programmes."

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