A leisure centre used by generations of locals has shut as bosses say they have no choice but to “admit defeat”.

The trustees of Folkestone Sports Centre Trust released a statement today saying the facility can “no longer afford to remain operational”.

“The current national and indeed world-wide situation has seen a dramatic increase in the Trust's costs, and locally a decline in income as many people struggle with their own finances,” said the trustees.

"The utility costs alone have increased by £250K over the past two-and-a-half years. Adding to that, an increase in the costs of purchases and increases in Living Wage."

“Therefore, the charity has now arrived at the point where there is no option but to accept defeat.”

It is understood staff were only informed of the sudden closure in an emergency meeting today.

Swimming teacher Charlie Hill said staff were told the centre’s workforce would not be paid for shifts done since July 1.

“This is a tragedy for Folkestone, but the way they’ve treated their staff is also tragic - it should never have happened this way,” said Mr Hill.

“They must have known before that they couldn't’ pay us and I’ve just worked a full shift.”

Mr Hill, 29, has worked for two years as a lifeguard and swimming instructor at the centre.

“It’s just ridiculous, we’ve got bills to pay, people have childcare, mortgages and we’ve literally just found out that we can’t pay them,” continued the Hawkinge resident.

“They just said emails will come out about how we can claim our money back through administrators.”

The fitness and swim centre - known locally as “The Sporty” - has been an important community leisure centre for generations of Folkestone residents.

In a message posted on its website today (Tuesday), the trustees thanked the centre’s management team staff, for their hard work and personal sacrifices.

An independent administrator will be appointed in coming days and no direct debit membership payments will be drawn on August 1, the trustees confirmed.

“Many thanks to our customers who, for many generations of their families, have grown up with the Sports Centre and who have been proud to have been a part of the journey, having seen many changes over the years and been all the better for the fantastic facilities on their doorstep,” added the message.

In March, the government announced Folkestone Sports Centre was among 10 Kent swimming pools that would receive a share of £60 million.

A grant of £106,380 was confirmed to go towards variable speed pumps and fans.