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Sit down to do some exercise

Penny Coles
30/ 5/2007

KEEPING fit is no problem for a group of sheltered accommodation residents - some of whom struggle to walk.

Their 'sit aerobics' class has just received a £10,000 lottery boost, which will be used to buy new exercise equipment and boost dance and craft classes.

Residents from Robinwood Lodge in Gamesley, Acre Court in Whitfield, and Primrose Court in Hayfield, grouped together to form the Glossop and District Aerobics Group, to qualify for the funding.

Chairman Dennis Francis said: "We got to know each other through the council's Active in the Community scheme.

"We became a formally constituted club following guidance and some initital funding of £100 from the High Peak Sports Development Team."

Dennis, 71, a resident with his wife at Robinwood Lodge, said everybody enjoyed the exercises and meeting new people from other sheltered accommodation complexes.

"We all feel like we are getting something out of it. It loosens us up and we get a bit of fun out of it," he said

"It is only gentle exercise but it helps to keep our shoulder and neck muscles and leg muscles strong.

"It is a big achievement for everyone involved, not least the older members of the group, and those who struggle to walk.

"Thanks to the funding from Awards for All, we can really develop our group."

Awards for all grants are between £300 and £10,000 for people to take part in projects from art to sport, heritage and education.

It is supported by the Arts Council England, the Big Lottery Fund, the Heritage Lottery Fund, and Sport England.