Leisure providers are at a ‘crisis point’ as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, English and Welsh councils have warned.

In a letter to culture secretary Oliver Dowden, chair of the Local Government Association’s (LGA) culture, tourism and sport board, Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, expressed concerns that sport and leisure infrastructure that is ‘essential to keep our nation active’ was ‘under threat’.

He called for the Government to ensure leisure trusts have access to the new £750m grant-based package for the charity and social enterprise sector.

The LGA is also calling on the Government and utility companies to also agree a short-term reduction or waiving of standing charges for energy and water.

Cllr Vernon-Jackson said: 'If we do not act to save these vital community resources, it will cost us much more in the long-term both socially and economically.

'It is vital that government works with councils and leisure providers to identify any potential funding to avoid reaching a crisis point.'