A FITNESS club in Worcester has stopped selling membership and says it is likely to close in around ten days.

Fit for Free, which has a centre in St Martin's Quarter, has written to members to say the club is likely to close to members on or around Sunday, July 16.

The club said it had been trying to sell the club to other fitness operators but the process was ongoing and not finalised.

"Challenging market conditions in the low-cost fitness sector" was blamed for the club's position.

The club posted on its Facebook page to say: "You may have heard or been made aware that Fit For Free and your local Fitness Centre are in the process of transferring its location to another operator.

"Whilst we have been reviewing our position in the UK under challenging market conditions in the low-cost fitness sector, which has included the option to sell the Club to other fitness operators, this process is ongoing and not finalised.

"As soon as we are able to we will notify members in their local club, by email or update via the website once the outcome of this review of our business in the UK is concluded."

The statement added: "In the meantime, and in the interest of clarity we have decided to suspend the selling of Annual Contract membership and will only offer monthly rolling memberships and pay as u gym day/week passes to reduce further inconvenience for our members."

The club has promised to refund any payments made to Fit for Free in good faith that cross over any closure date.

They will refund the weeks/months remaining for annual memberships and quarterly paid memberships and any full days' credit for monthly memberships.

Members of the club's Facebook page expressed their sadness at the news.

Jonathan Tustain said: "Very sad news.

"The place has a wonderful atmosphere thanks to the fantastic instructors.

"I never ever thought I would enjoy going to the gym but since January it has become a second home."

Rebecca Jane said: "Fit for free is so much more than just a gym for so many! We are like a family."

Dan Hook posted: "Such a shame.

"I've been a member for over two years now and I have loved my time at this gym.

"Never encountered any problems, the staff are friendly and always welcoming/saying goodbye and the facilities are great for the price, too."