TWO brothers who own a Blackwood fitness centre say a smear campaign is damaging their business.

Andrew and Richard James, who run Blackwood Unique Fitness Centre, say vicious rumours that spy cameras are installed in their tanning suites may force their closure.

Richard, 36, pictured, said: "About half a dozen or so people have come to us to say they have heard stories circulating that we've installed cameras in the tanning rooms so that we can look at people."

The brothers, who have run their business for seven years, were so concerned they contacted the Argus in an attempt to put the record straight.

Richard said: "We do have CCTV cameras outside the doors, which are closed by customers, for security purposes. They don't film inside the rooms."

But trade is being hit - bookings for tanning sessions have slumped by between 10% and 15%.

Andrew, 32, said: "We want to nip this in the bud and prevent things from snowballing.

"This is a family-run business and we try to provide a happy, friendly place for our customers.

Richard added: "I think it is all about jealousy because we are successful and we've got the biggest gym in the area."

Caerphilly councillor Darren Jones is cabinet member for environmental services. His department carry out checks on leisure facilities in the county.

He said: "The Unique Fitness Centre has a good reputation."