TATTON MP Esther McVey, who lobbied Government to allow gyms to remain open, has welcomed news that they will reopen after the second national lockdown ends.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed the move yesterday afternoon, days after Ms McVey wrote to ministerial colleagues demanding action.

She said: “Thousands of people across Tatton have signed a petition calling for gyms to remain open.

“I have spoken to many gym owners across the constituency, and it is clear they were always Covid-compliant and had introduced many safety measures.

“Exercise improves mental health, and right now we are in unprecedented times and people need an outlet and anything that can help.

“Independent gym Anytime Fitness in Knutsford made the excellent point that closing gyms was in direct opposition to the Government’s obesity plan and could lead to longer public health challenges post-pandemic, and I made that point to Government, along with many other comments from gym owners across the area.

“We have been told people who are overweight are suffering more complications from this virus, so allowing gyms to reopen is the right thing to do. They should never have shut in the first place.”

Ms McVey also welcomed confirmation tennis and golf would reopen, allowing people to exercise and participate in sports while remaining socially distanced.