CAMPAIGNERS are warning people in Swindon to beware of gyms using unscrupulous sales tactics to sign-up new members.

The Citizens Advice Bureau has received a number of complaints from people who agreed to join clubs, only to find themselves trapped if they decide to cancel.

One problem is that consumers often fail to realise when they are signing a credit agreement which locks them into paying membership fees for a set period.

Many gyms and health clubs are currently offering deals to try to attract new members.

In one case, a couple from Wiltshire were told they had both won free membership to a gym.

They signed up to take advantage of their prize and only later discovered it was a credit agreement.

Citizens Advice say the law relating to gym membership is the same as for any goods and services.

A contract cannot be disregarded just because someone has decided they no longer wish to be a member of a gym.

It urges any potential member of a gym to read small print on what they are asked to sign.