The sudden, unexpected closure of an established gym in Worksop has left both members and workers there stunned.

A notice pinned to the door of Anytime Fitness in the retail park off Sandy Lane was discovered by members turning up to train at the premises, that said it was closed temporarily due to an electrical fault.

But long-term member Matthew Merrick said the former 24-hour facility had "without prior notice to its loyal community shut its doors, sent staff home, and stripped the premises of equipment - allegedly leaving hundreds of members stranded and out of pocket."

He added that new members had signed up to long term contracts just hours before the doors were locked, and a general manager had been hired in recent weeks.

The notice left attached to the door of the gym in Sandy Lane, Worksop.

placeholder image — The notice left attached to the door of the gym in Sandy Lane, Worksop.

A message has since been emailed to members confirming the closure, but the Guardian was told it failed to provide justification or explanation regarding customers having money returned.

One local athlete, who wished to remain anonymous, was left in a ‘critical situation’ just weeks away from a big competition.

This member said: "I’ve been training at the gym for over eight years, and to have it close like this just weeks before a major competition leaves me without a proper training facility.

"To make matters worse, I had actually lent some of my own personal gym equipment to the facility so other members could use and benefit from it.

Inside the now-closed gym that had become a community hub.

"Now, the owners have closed up and taken off without returning it, and without so much as an email to explain what’s going on."

For many local residents, said Matthew, the abrupt shutdown marks the sudden loss of a vital community hub.

He said: "Over the years, the Sandy Lane gym has developed a reputation as a training sanctuary for local bodybuilders, fitness enthusiasts, and competitive athletes, while serving as a pillar for mental and physical health.

"It was a meeting point where deep friendships were forged, and in some cases, where local couples first met."

Upset members have expressed their disgust at the lack of communication prior to the closure of the gym, that had been established for eight years.

Members who have paid annual or upfront memberships are currently seeking clarity on refunds, while others are calling on the franchise owners to return personal property and issue an official statement explaining the decision.

The Worksop Guardian has tried to contact the owners of the gym franchise without success.