Charity sports centre to shut after 'generations'

The site has a range of facilities including swimming pools and dance studios

A charity sports centre in Kent has announced it is closing its doors after being enjoyed by local families for "generations".

On Tuesday, the trustees of Folkestone Sports Centre Trust told residents about its decision after deciding the charity could "no longer afford to remain operational".

The site in Radnor Park Avenue has a range of facilities including swimming pools, dance studios, a cafe, and a bar.

The trustees said: "It is with much sadness that we must say goodbye - thank you - and we wish everyone all the very best."

'Accept defeat'

The trustees explained that the current "national and indeed world-wide situation" had seen a "dramatic increase" in the trust's costs, with locals also being hit by the cost of living crisis.

They added: "The charity has now arrived at the point where there is no option, but to accept defeat.

"The trustees remain ever grateful to our management team and amazing staff, who have battled through the past four years and in many cases, have made personal sacrifices, to try and keep 'The Sporty' going - but we have now lost that battle."

Folkestone Swimming Club, which used the site, said the centre had ceased trading.

The trustees said: "Many thanks to our customers who, for many generations of their families, have grown up with the sports centre and who have been proud to have been a part of the journey, having seen many changes over the years and been all the better for the fantastic facilities on their doorstep."

The trustees said they would soon appoint an independent administrator and would not be taking any direct debit membership payments on 1 August.

A petition to save the site has already been launched and attracted more than 700 signatures.