A HAMPSHIRE gym has shut its doors suddenly after suffering “financial problems”.

Members of Accolade Health and Fitness in Southampton have been turning up only to find the building locked, phone calls going unanswered and a typed note on the door.

The message briefly explains how company directors have sought legal advice and decided to cease trading blaming financial difficulties.

But mystery still surrounds why exactly the facility has closed.

Last night, lights were on at the facility, in Centurion Park near Northam Bridge, but the doors were closed and nobody was available for comment.

It is not yet clear how many jobs have been lost as a result of the closure or how many members have been affected.

But a message has been posted on the social networking website Facebook thanking members for their “support over the previous 18 months” and promising that they will receive written communications in the next 14 days.

The message said: “It is with great regret that we must inform you that Accolade Gym Limited has ceased trading as of today.

“The company has been suffering from financial problems. The directors have sought professional advice and have decided that the club has to close.

“All members will receive written communication from the company within the next two weeks. This communication will explain how the business and affairs of the company are to be dealt with.

“We would like to thank all our members for your support over the previous 18 months.”

Members of the gym had enjoyed the use of more than 50 exercise machines, 45 studio fitness classes a week, use of a sauna and steam room, sunbed facilities and free Wi-Fi and parking.

But after the doors were closed on June 27 and with the future of the building now thrown into doubt, it is likely many of them will be forced to find an alternative facility.

Last night, nobody was available for comment from the company, although its website was still in operation.