Last updated 19:40, Thursday, 17 April 2008

A WORKINGTON gym owner has joined forces with staff at the town’s community hospital to combat the growing problem of obesity.

Alan Moore, of Intrim Fitness Centre on Murray Road, has offered 10 people the opportunity to use his gym for six weeks for free in a healthier lifestyle course organised by Workington Community Hospital.

Dr Mike Mort, who works for the hospital, has sent out 23 letters inviting overweight patients aged between 55 and 70 to undertake three 30-minute sessions a week at Intrim.

Dr Mort said: “This is a generous offer as the cost will be borne by the gym.”

Mr Moore said: “We’re going to help these people to help themselves. We’re going to prove to them that visiting a fitness centre is good for them.

“It is inactivity and kills you not activity.

“You’ve only got one body in this life and you have to look after it.”

The aim of the programme is to be fun, promote well-being and improve health by through exercise.

Dr Mort said: “We hope people will feel benefits and be motivated to continue their healthier lifestyle, with regular exercise to maintain the improvement.”

Mr Moore will be on hand to offer dietary advice and will plan an exercise programme tailored to the needs of those taking part.

The places, which have all been filled, were allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.

A spokeswoman from the hospital said that she was overwhelmed by the immediate response to the invitation letters.

Those taking part will have a medical check-up before their training starts.