OLDER people have been encouraged to take part in a county-wide fitness project.

The Elevate project, which is aimed at people aged 65 and over, has classes scheduled for Oswestry and Whitchurch.

Shropshire Council has commissioned county sports partnership Energize Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin to deliver the project, which encourages older people to improve their strength and balance in a friendly setting.

Christina Morgan, Elevate project officer at Energize, said: “These are specialist exercise classes: they are delivered by a team of experts who have been trained in "postural stability", which is evidenced to improve strength and stability in older people.

“Although people can refer themselves directly, we know that a referral or encouragement from a trusted source, be it a family member, friend or professional, can really help to motivate someone to attend.

“The classes run over a 20-week period, after which we will be seeking to signpost participants to other local opportunities, so that people can enjoy staying active.”

The classes will be primarily based in market towns, with the first sessions are already programmed for Shrewsbury, Oswestry, Ludlow, Whitchurch, Bishop’s Castle and Craven Arms.

Those interested can either self-refer, or they can be referred by a friend or health professional, and then the Elevate team will invite them to their next available class.

The project is supported by organisations including Age UK and Shropshire Rural Communities Charity, as well as GPs and health professionals.

Councillor Lee Chapman, Shropshire Council’s cabinet member for adult social care, health and social housing, added:

“We are delighted that Energize have been awarded the contract to deliver the Elevate project, which could really help older people who want to improve their balance, flexibility and confidence.

“These classes will provide a great opportunity for older people to remain active and maintain independence, whilst at the same time make new friends.”

While the project is subsidised by Shropshire Council to £3 per class, residents outside of the area can still enquire to attend.

For more details, visit www.energizestw.org.uk/elevate/, email christina.morgan@energizestw.org.uk or call the Energize team on 01743 297 194.