Get fit with Active Somerset

3:44pm Tuesday 26th February 2008

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A COUNTYWIDE project has been launched in Somerset in an attempt to reduce levels of obesity and increase levels of physical activity.

The combination of a less active lifestyle and changes to eating patterns are blamed by experts for the rise in obesity.

Active Somerset is an initiative to set up a variety of recreational activities from cycling and walking to aerobics and badminton.

The aim is to attract people who are not normally active as well as those who would like to do more activities.

Partners, which include Tone Leisure, Taunton Deane Council, Somerset County Council, Somerset Primary Care Trust, Age Concern Somerset and Sport England, have teamed up to provide more opportunities across the county.

The funding will enable Taunton Deane to initiate and support up to 63 new activities for local residents aged 16 - 74+ for a period of 12 weeks.

Taunton Deane is looking for qualified exercise and walk leaders, sports coaches, cycling clubs, running clubs and any other recreational activity provider.

The council can provide funding and support for 12 weeks while they start up an activity.

To find out which activities are in your area or to otherwise get involved contact Mark Owen on 01823 273088.