Edinburgh Leisure thanks 1,100 people continuing membership through Covid-19 crisis

Edinburgh Leisure has thanked customers who have continued to pay their membership fees by direct debit in support of the charity.

Over 1,100 customers have so far signed up to continue paying voluntarily while the centres are closed during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Freezing memberships because of the crisis has had ‘huge consequences’ for Edinburgh Leisure, CEO June Peebles said, adding that few people realise that the organisation is a charity.

Donations will help to keep venues in the ‘best possible position’ for when the crisis is over and they can reopen, she said.

Customers can keep fit during the crisis by following free fitness videos uploaded online by Edinburgh Leisure and fitness partner Les Mills.

It comes after West Lothian Leisure issued a plea last week for customers to continue paying their membership fees by direct debit in support of the organisation.

June Peebles said: “It certainly is strange and unsettling times for everyone just now, no matter what industry you work in.

“Following our news regarding the full closure of Edinburgh Leisure venues and with the Government’s announcement which introduced stricter measures, we have now also included the closure of our golf courses and our tennis courts in this too.

“We’d like to say a big thank you to our loyal customers. We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support on social media and in direct emails to me, all voicing their commitment and pledging for us to get through this together.

“So many of you really value the important services that Edinburgh Leisure delivers – we value your support too and together we will get through this.

“Many people do not appreciate that Edinburgh Leisure is a charity. Every penny we receive from memberships, coaching, lets, events and funding is reinvested back into our venues and funds the services we provide – therefore shutting our venues and freezing customers’ memberships has huge consequences for us and also the health of Edinburgh.

“Many customers have expressed that they would like to continue to pay their monthly direct debit.

“We appreciate that not everyone will be in a position to do this but over 1,100 customers have signed up to continue paying.

“This support is greatly appreciated and will help us to ensure we are in the best position possible to welcome our customers back when the situation improves.”