A BASILDON trampoline park has closed down just five months after it opened.

Gravity Force Basildon, at Festival Leisure Park, announced its closure on Facebook yesterday.

The last session at the trampoline park, which featured dodgeball and basketball, was held on Sunday at 7pm.

Gravity Force, which also operates parks in Camberley, St Albans and Sunderland, said the closure was due to it wanting to focus on “other markets”.

Richard Simpson, managing director of the company, said: “We have thoroughly enjoyed serving the community of Basildon over the past six months and wish well all the customers who have jumped with us.

“We are focusing our efforts on the future growth of the company in other locations, highlighted by the successful launch of our newest and biggest trampoline park in St Albans, which has seen unprecedented visitor numbers in its first week of operation.

“We would encourage customers with pre-bookings to contact us on the email address provided.

“As a company we now look to continue delivering memorable experiences to our customers in Camberley, Sunderland, St Albans and future sites.”

Manager Richard Hook commented on the post: “I have never had such a committed, passionate and amazing team to lead.

“You made for a special environment and that is why so many customers are disappointed.

“Today is the first day of a new adventure for all of us.

“Good luck job hunting and to all our customers we loved having you.

Residents have also expressed their dismay at the closure on the company’s Facebook page.

Tim Oldland said: “I am genuinely gutted. I brought Emily here pretty much every week since it opened, sometimes twice. I feel for the people who worked there, as they were brilliant.”

Ria Thornhill added: “Oh no, we loved it there.

“Thanks to all the staff who made us feel so welcome and made it all such fun.”

Karen Swanscott posted: “Six months is no time.

“I really feel sorry for the staff. I don’t think the company gave this much of a chance.”

Email basildon@gravityforce.co.uk for more information. Dropzone Trampoline Park, in North Gunnells, remains open.