Sutton’s Lammas Leisure Centre is helping to get older members of the community back on their feet after a difficult lockdown period earlier this year.

Lammas Leisure Centre, managed by sports and leisure operator Everyone Active in partnership with Ashfield District Council, has helped its over-60s members safely participate in focused classes, including Zumba and Clubbercise.

Harold Rymell, 76, and Vera Burford, 85, are two members who were keen to return to the centre following the successful reopening. They both found it very hard being unable to exercise and struggled with a lack of normal routine in lockdown.

Harold said: “I’ve missed being able to go to the gym over the past few months. I feel safe being back and the team are doing a great job making sure everyone follows the Covid safety guidelines. All the equipment is cleaned before and after every session and spaced out properly.

“From a social point of view, I’ve been so grateful to be able to get out of the house again and see some familiar faces. It feels good to be back.”

Vera added “At my age, it’s important to stay active and healthy so I’m happy to be back in the gym. I visit the centre three times a week and I’ve found it easy to book my sessions.”

Lammas Leisure Centre reopened on 1st August after almost five months of closure due to the UK-wide lockdown.

Coun Kier Barsby, portfolio holder for health and leisure at Ashfield District Council, said: “The centre has been a real saviour for some of its members.

“Although some elements of Covid restrictions are returning, our leisure centres still remain open for members as a vital outlet both physically and mentally.

“This year has shown just how important exercise is for our residents so we will continue striving to provide the best possible leisure facilities for the people of Ashfield.”

Numbers through the doors show that members were keen to get back in the centre, with 25,000 visits, including over 3,500 over-50s attending activities since reopening. The team has also seen several hundred new members joining.