RESIDENTS will get the chance to try out the facilities at their local leisure centre for free this week.

Fusion Lifestyle says anyone living in the Braintree district can head along to Braintree Sport and Health Club, Braintree Swimming & Fitness, Witham Leisure Centre or Halstead Leisure Centre, without paying between Wednesday, September 23, and Sunday, September 27.

The centres are offering free entry to celebrate National Fitness Day, which takes place on Wednesday.

Residents looking to make the most of the free pass are asked to book online as all centres must continue to comply with social distancing regulations.

They have the option to book a free gym sessions, indoor swim or group exercise class.

Anthony Cawley, director of operations at Fusion, said: “There has never been a more important time to look after the health and wellbeing of the nation and we want to take this small step to encourage members of the community to come into one of our centres free of charge.

"We want to remind them of the great leisure facilities on their doorstep, show them how safe their centres are and help them to get active."

Gym users will be asked to arrive ready to work out, and swimmers with their costumes under their clothes to aid social distancing.

Fusion says meticulous cleaning routines are in place at leisure centres to keep customers safe from coronavirus.

Bookings need to be made in advance by downloading the Fusion Lifestyle app or by visiting the centre websites and using the booking facility.

All sessions will be valid between September 23 and 27.