A GYM which has already been fined £3,000 for opening during two national lockdowns was found to be flouting the rules for a third time.

Police attended the site in the Hampden Park area of Eastbourne today after reports it was continuing to operate in breach of Covid-19 regulations.

Five people were found inside, not social distancing or wearing face masks.

The gym, which has not been named by Sussex Police, was found to have applied for a government grant for businesses experiencing hardship amid coronavirus.

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In the application, the business owners said the gym had been closed since December 26.

Police executed a warrant and arrested two men aged 30 and 31 on suspicion of fraud by false representation, who remain in custody for questioning.

Three other people inside the gym were issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice for breaching lockdown rules.

It comes after the business was fined £1,000 for opening during the November lockdown and then slapped with a £2,000 fine for opening again last month.

Chief Inspector Di Lewis, district commander for Eastbourne, said: “This gym has continued to operate in two national lockdowns, showing a clear disregard for the government’s Covid-19 restrictions.

“On the occasions police have attended to try and engage with the gym owner, officers have found people present inside the venue not social distancing and not wearing face coverings.

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“The government’s rules are there to help stop the spread of the virus, protect the NHS and save lives.

"Those who continue to ignore these regulations are risking bringing harm to our communities, and we will take enforcement action where necessary.”