THE FUTURE of a popular gym and fitness centre in Dawlish is uncertain following the bankruptcy of one of its owners.

Stephen Chandler was declared bankrupt at the County Court at Torquay and Newton Abbot on October 4. 

The bankruptcy is being handled by the Insolvency Service of Bristol, Exeter and Plymouth. 

His business Pride Fitness at Shutterton Bridge, Dawlish, has been closed since the bankruptcy was issued. 

Mr Chandler has posted a number of video messages on the gym’s Facebook page keeping gym members updated on the situation. 

On Sunday, he said all active memberships had been ‘paused’.

Last week a notice posted on social media and on the gym premises said due to ‘unforseen circumstances’, the gym had had to close ‘temporarily’.

Gym members who have annual memberships have been asking about refunds.

In one social media post, Mr Chandler said: ‘We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience as we appreciated how vital the gym is to some people. 

‘We are doing everything possible to speed up the process and open the doors as soon as we are able.

‘We massively appreciate your patience and support.’

Mr Chandler opened the business in 2020 with his estranged wife Nicky.