POLICE say they will continue to monitor a Southampton gym as it again appears to be flouting Covid restrictions after the city entered Tier 4 over the weekend.

As reported, fitness fanatics were spotted going in and out of Spartans Gym, on Millbank Street.

This was despite new Government rules which came into law on Boxing Day forcing gyms, swimming pools, studios and sports facilities to close indefinitely.

The firm is already facing court action over allegedly refusing to close during the November lockdown.

Daily Echo:

Hampshire Police say they are continuing to support Southampton City Council in relation to potential breaches of the current Health Protection Regulations at Spartan gym on Millbank Street in Southampton.

A spokesperson for the force said: "The city council leads on business breaches of the regulations and court proceedings are active in this case.

"We will continue to carry our patrols in the area to address any issues that are identified to us in a public place.

On Tuesday morning, an Echo reporter counted more than a dozen visitors, some arriving in groups of three, and nearly all not wearing any protective face coverings - such as masks.

Southampton City Council says it is working with Hampshire Constabulary to monitor the business.

It added that it is aware the gym is open.

Daily Echo:

Spartans Gym did not respond to the Echo's request for comment. However, speaking to a national newspaper, a spokesperson for the gym said those entering the site in full gym gear were "working".

They added: "We are closed but doing a lot of maintenance and also trying to paint, taking advantage of being closed… people coming and going will be working."

As reported last month, Josh Gosling appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court accused of opening the gym during the second coronavirus lockdown.

He pleaded not guilty to two charges of failing to comply with reasonable instruction given by a relevant person in England.

Gosling, of Tickner Close, Botley, previously represented himself and protested his innocence.

He argued he is a passionate gym member and is neither the manager nor owner of Spartans