Gym contracts and collection agencies

Shakespare2010

I moved away from my gym. I called one of the management and asked what to do. He informed me to write ending contract with proof of new address. I did so and cancelled my direct debit and paying for one month and giving months notice.

After a few weeks I got two phone calls from gym staff stating that I owed money. I explained that I have ended the contract and that I have given I months notice and that months payment has been made, so no more phone calls from the gym.

I got angry when I received phone call from a collections agency. I called the manger and asked why; after he got back to me he explained that one month’s payment was needed in addition to the months notice. I informed that I did not know and no one explained to me. I informed him that I have sight problems especially with small print this was the reason that I called to ask him initially to end contract. I had no problems paying that money.

I sent a cheque for one month and he sent it back stating that the collection agency was dealing with it now. I have to pay the full contract term. Is this fair? Can I go to court? What are my rights?:mad:

somethingcorporate

Your rights are what was originally in the T&Cs of the contract you signed up to - what does that say about cancellation?

Shakespare2010

The contract is convoluted, with very small text. It did read: “You may terminate your membership by giving the club at least 1 full calendar months notice, so that your membership will terminate at the end of the following calendar month after notice was given.”

I have sight problem and another disability that stops me from reading text properly. That is why I took the steps to speak to the manager. Told him about my situation, and left him to explain. He did not at all explain as it was in the contract. It took my call after the collection agency called me. I think it was a ploy to make money. I can remember that at the phone conversation I informed him that I didn’t have documents yet to back up my claim and he stated wait till they come through, even though this could be another month.

Could I go to court and argue my case. I feel this is really unfair.