A community gym has begun a search for a new home after the land it was renting was sold to a housing developer.

The Apollon Weight Training Club has been based at Norwich Rugby Club in Beeston Hyrne, near Spixworth, for the past 20 years.

But it now finds itself with just two years to secure somewhere new following the sale of the grounds, off North Walsham Road.

And while the rugby club is set to relocate to the UEA next year, the gym has been left with nowhere to go.

Terry Neve, 73, who has been a member of the gym since 1963, said: 'I have been there for more than 50 years and we have a number of long-standing members, so we would hate to see it close.

'It feels like deja vu for me because 20 years ago we had to do the same at Duke Street and I was looking around everywhere until we found the rugby club.'

Mr Neve, from Brundall, said the gym was founded in 1960 and was originally based at the Duke Street Community Centre for 35 years.

But it was forced to relocate in 1995 when the centre was closed down due to financial constraints.

It later moved to the rugby club and has been there ever since.

The sale of the land comes after the club was unable to afford the refurbishment of its clubhouse and pitch.

Mr Neve said: 'Ideally the Apollon would look for a partnership with a local community facility or local sports facility, but would have to remain in the current catchment area.'

He added that the gym, which has around 100 members, would also require around 2,000 sq ft of space, 24/7 access and parking for 20 vehicles.

Anyone who feels they can help is asked to call Terry Neve on 01603 713868.

Is a community facility near you facing closure? Call Luke Powell on 01603 772684