A SEVERELY disabled man is appealing for help to save a Port Glasgow gym which could be forced to shut its doors for good because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Andy Dowling, who has cerebral palsy, warns that the Kickback Gym in Princes Street is under threat since the lockdown.

The 36-year-old says that the gym and owner James Watson offer him a lifeline and help improve his mobility.

But with businesses set to suffer due to the unprecedented pandemic, it is feared the premises might not survive.

Andy, who lives in Skelmorlie and also suffers from alopecia, said: "The Kickback gym has made such a huge difference to me.

"James and his workouts have helped give me a new lease of life.

"I have never had this kind of support before, or someone who understands disabilities in the way James does.

"It would be terrible if it closed down - so many people who rely on it would suffer.

Andy, who works as a copywriter, says since starting at the gym two years ago his health has improved.

He added: "Before I started at Kickback I had no confidence.

"I'd also developed alopecia, which can be stress-related.

"James puts together exercises that are specific to me and builds up my strength.

"I feel so much better since I started his classes."

Martial arts instructor James fulfilled a lifelong dream when he opened up the gym but now he fears that it may not open back up again following the pandemic.

The gym owner, who recently saved the life of a toddler in the Port town centre by throwing himself in front of a car to stop her getting run down, has launched a fundraising campaign in a bid to save his facility.

James said: "We don't know how long this is going to last for.

"We keep adults fit, strong and healthy and children are learning life skills as well as martial arts and self defence here, we keep kids off the streets.

"We also teach pensioners tai chi for health and well-being and they love it."