Mr Universe Eddy Ellwood appeals against Covid breaches conviction at Hartlepool gym that resulted in £30,000 fine

By Mark Payne
Published 30th Mar 2023, 15:12 BST
Updated 4th Apr 2023, 10:57 BST
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A former Mr Universe winner and Hartlepool gym owner has launched an appeal over the use of his premises during Covid restrictions.

Edmund Ellwood, 59, is seeking to overturn a conviction and £30,000 fine that he was handed by Teesside Magistrates Court last April following a trial.

A district judge then found him guilty of four offences under Covid regulations dating back to early 2021 when the country was under strict restrictions which included gyms being forced to shut.

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Police and Hartlepool Borough Council officers who had issued two legal orders in relation to Xtreme Fitness, on the Longhill Industrial Estate, found people inside the premises when they attended on two occasions.

The case centres on the use of Xtreme Fitness Gym during Covid restrictions in early 2021. Picture by FRANK REIDThe case centres on the use of Xtreme Fitness Gym during Covid restrictions in early 2021. Picture by FRANK REID
The case centres on the use of Xtreme Fitness Gym during Covid restrictions in early 2021. Picture by FRANK REID

Ellwood has said they were there as part of a peaceful protest group and to support their mental health which suffered because of lockdown.

Teesside Crown Court heard two days of evidence and submissions last week from Hartlepool Borough Council and Ellwood.

Charles Holland, for the council, argued Ellwood contravened a local authority direction and prohibition notice on February 2 and 7.

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Mr Holland said the prosecution intended to “prove its case afresh”.

Edmund Ellwood is seeking to overturn his conviction and sentence given byTeesside Magistrates Court last year.Edmund Ellwood is seeking to overturn his conviction and sentence given byTeesside Magistrates Court last year.
Edmund Ellwood is seeking to overturn his conviction and sentence given byTeesside Magistrates Court last year.

He said Ellwood, of Blackhall, does not accept the then Health Secretary Matt Hancock had the power to make the regulations.

Mr Charles added Ellwood will also look to rely on exemptions regarding the use of gyms at the time, including one covering elite sportspeople.

The council disputes this saying the exemption was mainly for people competing in the Olympics, Paralympics and Commonwealth Games.

Ellwood represented himself at the appeal which has been adjourned until Monday, April 24.