Gym MEMBERS have thanked the owners of J’s Fitness for their hard work during coronavirus to motivate members, empower the local community and keep youngsters active by creating a series of kids’ challenges.

Last month the Chronicle reported how J’s Fitness owners, Jamie Wilson and Jamie McAllister, had launched a campaign to remember Scots victims of coronavirus by running, walking or cycling in their memory whilst raising money for key workers.

They had also given away all their gym equipment to members to keep them active at home.

But now the pair have been helping kids by setting them different tasks each week such as best fancy dress and have even been paying them a visit to present them with special prizes.

Jamie Wilson said: “At the start of lockdown we had a few emails with people concerned for their mental health. They were starting to feel depressed because they couldn’t work out so holding sessions via Zoom has really helped.

“We give the kids challenges every month and when restrictions eased we started dropping off prizes at their door. Seeing them smile and having a blether picks all of us up. They’re my wee pals.”

The club was meant to do a group walk up The Cobbler for charity but Jamie made an alternative 10-mile route around Cumnock instead. The walk was part of the club’s ongoing tribute to Scots coronavirus victims which they have now extended to remember those UK-wide.

Jamie said: “Our challenge last month was about raising funds for the NHS and key workers but we’ve decided to take on a bigger challenge and do it for each person that’s passed away in the UK.

“Anyone who did 10 miles donated their miles towards the final sum. We are currently sitting at 15,222 miles which means we have done it for 30,423 coronavirus victims. We’re not going to stop until we have done it for them all.”

Maxine Baird, gym member, said: “J’s Juniors gives all the children something to look forward to and gives them some kind of routine to their week. Jamie sets them tasks most weeks like best fancy dress. Two of the boys even dressed up as Jamie Wilson and Jamie McAllister!

“He has also been bringing prizes, t-shirts and gifts to the doors of all the children.

“Jamie is trying his best to keep all the kids fit and focused and has really given them something to look forward to every week. He has been a brilliant and positive role model to them all.

“All the members of J’s Fitness would like to say a huge thank you to both Jamies for all they have done to keep everyone motivated and giving us some sort of routine.”