A GYM owner who founded his studio two months before the coronavirus outbreak began said he is optimistic about reopening.

Fitness at Summers Park, in Dairy Barn Mews, Lawford, was launched on January 25 by exercise specialist and personal trainer Dean Smith.

Mr Smith, 54, of Kiln Lane, Lawford, said it was a successful two months, as he drew in many new customers after the new year.

“When the pandemic hit, we were quite sad because we started to pick up pace and everybody knew where we were,” he said.

“And then, we had to close overnight.

“However, the government allowed us to exercise outside with social distancing and we’re lucky with the gym because we have a big car park.

“So, we improvised, took out the equipment and the weights and did personal training at a distance.

“It’s a question of improvising and exercising, it’s only a few people who we can train, but it’s better than nothing.”

Mr Smith, who suddenly lost his income, said the Government’s scheme to help businesses was a great factor in the company’s survival.

The dad-of-one added the community had also “greatly” supported the business.

He said: “We had members who said they will continue paying the membership, even when we were closed.

“The overwhelming support and back-up from the community has been phenomenal.

“We couldn’t believe how many clients contacted us saying they will continue paying to support us.

“That makes you feel humble and proud to have good members.”

Mr Smith added he hopes they will be able to reopen in July, depending on changes to Government guidance.

“We haven’t got official guidelines, we can only assume based on the current climate that we will have to observe social distancing,” he said.

“But our gym is brand new, we’re very spacious, so we can observe social distancing between equipment and members.

“We will provide PPE for our staff and any of the customers who want to join.”

“We will have to reduce numbers, but we will do what we have to do, as want to make sure we follow the guidelines, we can’t afford to take the risk on.

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