A Lancashire gym has been forced to close after the owner allowed members to use the facilities despite nationwide lockdown restrictions being in place.

Several gym-goers, who were caught inside the gym, were also reprimanded, with officers issuing them Covid-fines.

On Friday afternoon, police and environmental health officers from Preston City Council visited Reps Gym on Roman Way Industrial Estate in Preston.

Officers said the owner of the gym had allowed it to stay open, despite lockdown rules stating all gyms must close.

The gym owner was slapped with a prohibition order, meaning it was asked to close, and those caught working-out and using the facilities were also handed fines, for being out of their homes without a reasonable excuse.

A spokesperson for the police said: "The proprietor of the premises had allowed the business to remain open, in contravention of the current nationwide restrictions in relation to Covid-19.

"The business operator was issued with a prohibition order by the local authority, and members of the public attending the gym were issued with police penalty notices for being away from their place of residence without reasonable excuse."

Chief Inspector Chris Barton of Preston Police said, "We are working around the clock with our partners to protect the public from this terrible pandemic, which is made all the more difficult when the restrictions are disregarded in such a way.

"We know it’s a really tough time for people but I have little sympathy for the behaviour of those involved in today’s incident.

"We thank the vast majority of the public who adhere to the restrictions but will continue to take enforcement action against those who have complete disregard for the law.

"It is vital we work together in order to keep people safe and protect our NHS.”