Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs is informing consumers who joined The Factory, a physical fitness facility which closed suddenly, of their rights. If you are a former member of The Factory, 1644 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201, please be advised of the following: Consumers who joined The Factory and signed an agreement for either an installment or pre-paid membership may be entitled to a refund.

If your contract has an automatic draft provision, your bank or credit union should be notified immediately to stop the draft. Consumers who paid in full and are unable to obtain a refund of the unearned pre-paid amount should file a complaint with the SC Department of Consumer Affairs. Consumers can file online (www.scconsumer.gov) or by telephoning 734-4200 or toll free in South Carolina 1-800-922-1594 and having a complaint form mailed to them, if necessary. In addition, written documentation of the membership, including a contract and/or proof of payment in the form of a cancelled check or credit card statement should be submitted to the Department for verification.

For more information, contact the Public Information Division at 803.734.4190, toll free in SC at 1.800.922.1594, or online at www.scconsumer.gov.