LIKE many people during the festive season, I had quite a bit of leisure time coming up over Christmas and New Year and was looking forward to some extra time in the gym, swimming, maybe also taking my grandchildren along.

I'm retired and no longer had my usual groups, voluntary work, etc, to help for a couple of weeks so had a lot of time alone.

There must also surely be families who can play together more than usual at this time and would want to play squash or go for a swim.

The Government, local council and Age UK encourage everyone to stay fit and old people not to be alone.

There was an advert in the local paper for a "Happy Christmas from invigor8" plus the possibility of buying a gift voucher — but here's my moan: Wirral leisure centres were mostly closed throughout the festive season, just when many people would like to use the facilities.

I pay a monthly fee and think I should ask for some money back as I wasn't able to use my leisure centre for about 10 days.

PS: My son's swim and gym centre in Liverpool was closed only on Christmas Day.

Name and address supplied.