Bridport Leisure Centre (BLC) has been forced to close as the second lockdown in England gets underway, but staff have been overwhelmed by the continued generosity and support of the local community.

Bridport Leisure Centre is run by non-profit charity, Bridport and West Dorset Sports Trust.

Will Thrower, manager at BLC, said: "Since the second 'firebreak' lockdown has been announced, Bridport Leisure Centre has received some great positive feedback from its members and the community.

"The management and staff are disappointed to have to close their doors once again, just as facilities and classes were safely being enjoyed by an increasing number of the community."

Jenny, a member of the centre who has continued to attend a variety of classes, has said that she would like to continue to pay her membership and felt that others might also be keen to donate.

She said: "The BLC has been a real lifeline for me through one of the most difficult times of my life and I have been immensely grateful to everyone at the centre for their enormous energy, professionalism and god humour in keeping it safely running for us through the last few months. It is hugely appreciated."

The BLC's Just Giving page is still live after it was set up during the last lockdown, for people to donate. It can be found here

Will added: "A massive thank you to all those who have already donated.

"We look forward to reopening the centre once we have been informed that it is safe to do so."