Worksop gym wrecked by floods reopens thanks to loyal members

Jon Stoner, 25, and co-owner Jack Richardson, 23, had just renovated Ignite Strength And Fitness on Central Avenue - previously known as Harvey’s - six months before floods hit.

The pair had spent £20,000 on decorating and new machinery before it was submerged in three feet of water on November 7.

Jon told how he had been closing for the night when the deluge came bursting through the door.

He said: “The police came and told me to get out but I told them I wasn’t going anywhere.

“I needed to get the electrical equipment above the water level - so I rang the lads and asked them to come and help - we put everything up above the weights.”

Jon – who worked day and night salvaging the gym – also paid tribute to members Carl Williams and Spit Durkin – who salvaged equipment.

Unfortunately Jon and Jack’s insurance did not cover the building’s contents and interior fixtures - leaving them with a bill of more than £4,000.

As a thank you he gave all those who helped save the business free membership.

He said: “I think they all missed the place while it was closed.

“This gym isn’t like others - it’s very welcoming and not cliquey at all.”

Ignite reopened on November 12 - signing up 50 new members.

They also welcomed special guests - professional bodybuilders Hollie Feeney and Trevor Crouch.

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