Loyal gym customers in protest

An online petition has been launched protesting against the decision to close one of Shropshire's longest established gyms.

Members of Fitness First in Shrewsbury are trying to save their club from shutting after it was revealed this week that it will close on September 21.

The gym, which employs 20 staff, has been in the town for more than 10 years and has more than 2,000 members. But Fitness First is not renewing its lease on the site in St Michael's Street.

Members have now launched the internet petition at www.ipetitions.com/petition/fitnessfirstshrewsbury to try to stop the gym from closing.

Notices have also gone up in the gym urging members to write letters in support of keeping the gym. Members are hoping that Fitness First and site owner Morris Property can reach an agreement for it to continue to operate in the town.

Petition organiser Matt James said: "I decided to launch it really because so many people that I have spoken to just couldn't believe that it was happening - and the way in which it was happening.

"I know that there are a few people who have already signed it but I guess the more people who know about it and sign it the better. I feel so sorry for the staff there as they are just great."