A GROUP "intimidating staff" and being "abusive" has caused a leisure centre to close temporarily.

The group went onto the Malvern Splash Leisure Complex site on Priory Road and damaged the facilities.

It has led the centre to close at 6pm this evening (Monday) and to open later than usual tomorrow at 2.30pm.

A spokesperson for Malvern Splash said: "Due to recent incidents involving a group on-site causing damage, intimidating staff and engaging in abusive behaviour, Malvern Splash will close at 6pm this evening.

"To ensure the safety of our staff and customers, we will also open later tomorrow, August 6, at 2.30pm.

"This decision was made in consultation with the community safety group at Malvern Hills District Council and Malvern Splash employees to prioritise everyone's safety.

"Thank you for your understanding."

Malvern Splash Leisure Complex has urged its customers to use other Freedom Leisure centres like  Sport Dyson Perrins, Sport Martley, St Johns Sports Centre, Nunnery Wood Sports Complex, Tenbury Swimming Pool and Perdiswell Leisure Centre.

It added: "Please check their websites for specific opening times and programmes as their session times will be different."