A businessman insisted that Jumbos Jungle indoor soft play centre will be opening in Chatteris despite setbacks and social media rumours wondering why it has not opened this month.

Les Crofts, who runs two businesses converting vans into campers and making recovery trucks in Chatteris, says the builders are working on a unit in Honeysome Road where they are fixing leaks in the roof, re-wiring and putting down a new floor.

He said he has paid back everybody who bought VIP memberships in advance at a cost of £200 each and added he was looking for investors to help launch the half a million play centre - which is why there is a Just Giving page offering a financial opportunity with a 10 per cent return within a year.

Les said: “There’s been a lot of chat on Facebook about my business from people who know nothing about it. We’ve had problems finding a unit.

“Once landlords know we want a change of use they’re not interested.

“We’ve now found a unit, one we looked at originally, that has outline planning from Fenland District Council, but it’s sat empty for more than 10 years so needs lots of work which is why things got delayed.

hen we were broken into twice. Luckily nothing was taken as no tools are kept on site overnight.

“We don’t have the play equipment yet.

“When you’re opening a half a million pound business you need investors which is they there is a Just Giving Page,” but added he had nothing to do with it as had been set up by another person involved with the venture.

The Just Giving page says that: “At Jumbo’s we want everyone to feel at home and no matter what age have FUN.

“We offer soft play, slides, foam pit, football pitch, electric trail bikes pay and go and a lot more, in a safe and friendly environment, “Special Educational Needs area will be made as soon as possible offering a quiet area where anyone can go to relax and feel safe.

“The healthy cafe will focus on healthy living offering all types of food using local produce where possible.

“We are looking for investors, with a 10 per cent return after 12 months.

“We are making jobs and helping local businesses advertise, so the kids and everyone local will have something to do in Chatteris.

“Making a better place to come and building up local businesses. This will improve tourism in the fens and local area.”

WHAT’S YOUR VIEW? Email any comments please to kath.sansom@archant.co.uk or call the newsdesk on 01354 6610915