Stratford Leisure Centre to host free senior event for Silver Sunday

A fitness event aimed at older people is taking place at a leisure centre in Stratford-upon-Avon in celebration of Silver Sunday (6 October).

Stratford Leisure Centre, run by Everyone Active in partnership with Stratford-on-Avon District Council, will be offering fun, healthy activities for over 60s - completely free of charge.

The event is being hosted in honour of Age UK's Silver Sunday - the national day for older people - and aims to encourage over 60s to get active for their physical and mental wellbeing.

Designed to suit all abilities, there will be a seated exercise class at 11am, which can support strength, mobility and fitness.

This will be followed by a community café at 12noon for people to enjoy a hot drink and a chat.

The event coincides with the launch of Everyone Active's campaign, Age is Just a Number. Now in its fourth year, the campaign celebrates the senior demographic by showcasing their fitness stories throughout October and proving what can be achieved later in life.

Beyond the Silver Sunday sessions, Everyone Active offers a range of specialised classes for older people in Stratford-on-Avon District all year round. By signing up on the website, people can find out more about local senior sessions, as well as being in with a chance to win a six-month adult membership.

Richard Bell, contract manager at Everyone Active, said: "We're proud to provide our members with a friendly and welcoming environment that motivates people of all ages to get active.

"Our upcoming event in honour of Silver Sunday will showcase the fantastic array of senior activities on offer and give over 60s the opportunity to try them out for free.

"Staying active as we age is so important for physical and mental health, and we hope our event inspires older people to discover new ways to enjoy exercise.

"This also marks the start of a month-long celebration with our Age is Just a Number campaign. We look forward to shining a spotlight on inspiring members of our community who are showing just how transformative exercise can be later in life."

Cllr Lorraine Grocott, Environmental and Neighbourhood Services Portfolio said: "Silver Sunday is a really positive way to celebrate older people whilst encouraging them to learn new skills and meet others of a similar age.

"Although Silver Sunday is celebrated on one day, in partnership with our leisure operator, Everyone Active, we have lots of free or low-cost activities for older people across the whole District at our leisure centres and in local communities.

"As a District Council, we are committed to making our services and amenities available for all our District residents and there's something for all abilities and interests!"

The event will take place from 11am until 1pm. Full information on sessions and timetables can be found by searching for your local centre on the Everyone Active website