Reps Gym: Preston businessman who refused to comply with lockdown rules has closed the business after 35 years

Steve Todd, of Reps Gym on Maitland Street, Preston, landed himself in court after refusing to shut his business in November 2020 in line with government restrictions designed to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

The 55-year-old claimed he was offering an important service to his customers and said that closing his doors would adversely impact their mental health.

However, after several visits by the police and a long legal battle, the courts disagreed and issued Mr Todd with a five-figure fine in April last year.

At the time, Mr Todd told the Lancashire Post the sanction and resulting legal costs would push him into bankruptcy.

He was also said now has “nothing to lose” and planned to appeal the decision again at the High Court although it is unclear whether any such application was made.

However, last week Mr Todd, who is from Longridge, confirmed Reps would no longer stay open and closed its doors for the final time on Sunday.

He released a lengthy statement on social media on his decision to close but did not touch upon the reasons for the closure. The gym closed its doors on Sunday.

The statement, posted on Reps Gym’s Instagram account, said: It’s been 35 years since Steve first opened the doors on Maitland Street, and the time has now come for Reps to shut its doors.

“We’d like to give you a special thank you for all your support. It’s been a hell of a ride! Reps wouldn’t be what it is without all of our weird and wonderful members.

“As most of you will know Reps isn’t just a gym. It’s a family community, a safe place where all different walks of life come together and walk out feeling better than they did walking in.”

The statement added that Mr Todd had “given his absolute everything to Reps, which we’re sure most of you will never forget and be truly grateful for”.

Mr Todd has been approached by the Lancashire Post for further comment.