This Christmas, Everyone Active will open the doors to its Ashfield leisure centres for free to all members of the emergency services and frontline NHS colleagues.

This goodwill gesture is in recognition of the hard work the emergency services carry out, particularly over the Christmas period, when they are working long and unsociable hours away from loved ones.

From the 24th to 31stDecember, those who hold a valid Emergency Services ID card will be granted free-of-charge access to the gyms and swimming pools at Hucknall, Festival Hall and Lammas Leisure Centre.

“Christmas is a special time of year, but many emergency service workers put in extra shifts and incredibly long hours to keep us safe and well,” said Paul Dowling, East regional director for Everyone Active. “With our centres open early to late, we wanted to do something to show our appreciation. Whether they want to stop by for a hot shower, a swim in the pool or to let off some steam in the gym, we will welcome them through our doors.”

Coun Jason Zadrozny, leader of Ashfield District Council, said: “This is a brilliant opportunity to thank the emergency services and front line NHS staff in Ashfield for the hard work they put in cross the year as well as at Christmas.

“We hope that as many people as possible take up the opportunity to enjoy the vast range of facilities we have on offer across our leisure centres. As well as the physical benefits, there are also great mental health benefits from physical activity.”

All emergency services staff will be required to fill in the necessary Health & Safety forms and watch the online induction before being granted free and unlimited access to the centres over the festive period. For more information about opening times, visit https://www.everyoneactive.com/ourgift/