A gym user fears his leisure centre will deteriorate if it is taken over by private contractors.

Last week the Gazette published a story about the possibility that Highgrove Pool and Fitness Centre, in Hume Way, Ruislip, and Queensmead Sports Centre, in Victoria Road, South Ruislip, will become privatised.

After reading the story Don Cass, who has been using Highgrove gym at least four times a week for three years, contacted the Gazette to tell us what he thought.

The 69-year-old, from Ickenham, said: "I go to the gym with a group of people, and we were pretty distressed by this news.

"We have heard the gym makes a profit, so Hillingdon Council will lose this money if it is privatised, and I don't understand that. Why fix something if it's not broken?

"I have been to several gyms but Highgrove is one of the most pleasurable. The atmosphere is great, and that would definitely go if it was privatised.

"I assume the costs will increase and the facilities on offer will decrease. Highgrove makes a big contribution to the health of the community, and that is going to be compromised."

Register your comments by calling Hillingdon Council on 01895 250 844, or write to the Head of Sport and Leisure, Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 1UW.

You can also email charlenemitchell@trinitysouth.co.uk   at the Gazette with your comments, or ring her on 01895 451 029.