An Olympic-standard equestrian centre in Clevedon has been closed and put up for sale due to financial difficulties.

The Hand Equestrian Centre in Davis Lane was bought by Nick Davies in 2007, who spent millions upgrading the facility which has been used by organisations including the British Show Jumping Association.

The centre was renowned throughout the UK for its high calibre facilities and shows. In a statement on the centre’s website, Nick said: “It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that I have to announce that The Hand Equestrian Centre has closed.

“We bought the Hand eight years ago as a run-down shed and as a family we have invested a small fortune and all of our time into the facility to develop it into an Olympic-approved venue for all to enjoy.

“For years The Hand Equestrian Centre has not been able to make enough money to pay its way through equestrian activities alone but we have always managed to make up the shortfall.

“It has been our challenge over the years to try to diversify the business and find new sources of income that compliment the centre’s horse activities to ensure its continued future.”

The centre held car boot sales on Saturdays and events such as the Zero To Hero white collar boxing, which helped to keep it running a little longer.

Nick added: “We have agonised over this decision but are faced now with no alternative but to close the centre and put the property up for sale.

“I would like to thank all the members of staff for their commitment and hard work over the years and would like to wish them all the best for the future.”

There were also a number of messages from people expressing their disappointment on the centre’s Facebook page, including Maisie Whittaker, who said: “I really do hope someone buys it and carries it on as an equestrian centre as the facilities here are just unbelievable.”