SUPPORTERS of Ripped Gym in Harlow took part in a socially distanced exercise class outside the premises on Sunday morning.

A message had gone up on social media “advertising” it as a “protest workout” outside the Wych Elm premises.

The gym has become the centre of national attention after the owner Michelle Meade was arrested and charged under Coronavirus legislation.

By 10.15 am a dozen or so supporters had turned up, some with their own equipment and took part in a series of exercise drills.

They were joined by former Eastenders star Danny Walters, who played Keanu in the BBC soap opera.

Although, the gym owners were present they were seen to stress to YH that this was an event organised by supporters and in the street.

A small delegation of police officers observed proceedings.

An Essex Police spokesperson said: “We attended an unauthorised event in Wych Elm, Harlow on Sunday 8 November.

“Our officers engaged with those in attendance and explained the new regulations and they left peacefully”.

Earlier, Essex Police had put the following message on the social media channels.

“We are urging people not to attend an unauthorised event planned to take place in #Harlow this morning (Sunday 8 November).We became aware of plans for the event yesterday evening and are attempting to speak to those involved.

Detective Chief Inspector Jasmine Frost of the Local Policing Command Team said: “All of us have been affected by the impact of coronavirus and the enormity of this cannot be underestimated. “Our focus has always been and will continue to be to protect and serve our communities.

“Our approach to the Government’s COVID-19 regulations is to engage with people, explain the regulations, and encourage them to do the right thing.“

We are in the process of speaking to those involved to explained the regulations to them, and encouraged them to ensure they are adhering to them.“

Where there are clear and blatant breaches, and it is appropriate to do so, we will take enforcement action and you could face a fine.

“The vast majority of people in Essex have been doing the right thing and following the Governments regulations and I want to thank you for that.“I urge you to continue to do so and not put your welfare and that of your loved ones at risk.“

By following the regulations, you help us to focus our main efforts on what we do best – helping people, keeping them safe and catching criminals.”

YH has contacted Essex Police to establish how events ended.