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Reps Gym, which flouted Covid restrictions, was finally closed after council officers and police enforced a court order.

Today owner Steven Todd said he was taking legal advice and would definitely fight the order, and the imposition of costs of £9,000.

He said: "I'm going to appeal. It won't stop there.

"I'm working with my legal team at the moment."

The gym, on the Roman Way Industrial Estate, had been ignoring fixed penalty notices issued by the city council since November.

A closure order was issued by Preston Magistrates Court on Friday, making any attempt to access the building illegal.

Environmental Health officers and police visited the premises to enforce the magistrates' decision.

Mr Todd said today he was stunned by the court's decision, which he maintained was unlawful.

In a bizarre twist, the court ruling means that he has to ask for permission to access the building to get a shower and do his washing.

Mr Todd said his shower at home was broken and his washing machine was situated at the gym.

He now had to ring a company to allow him access to his own premises.

Mr Todd said he would fight the authorities' actions.

"They have closed my business down and want me to pay £9,000 in costs. They have ruined my life."

He said he had done everything possible to make the gym safe. Exercise was vital for mental health, he said.

But the council and Lancashire police say he was in breach of the coronavirus regulations and they acted to uphold the law.

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Defiant Preston gym owner vows to fight on