Walk and Swim Group

RETIRED people from Carmarthen are getting fit and making new friends at the same time. A new project has been launched to encourage the over 50s to take up exercise.

A free walk and swim group started last week, with volunteers enjoying a walk, a swim and then a chat over tea and coffee.They set off from the Carmarthen Leisure Centre and walk for 30-45 minutes and then enjoy a swim before having a chat over tea and coffee.Organisers say they were delighted by the response to the group launch, which follows the success of pilot schemes in Llanelli and Ammanford in recent months.

Carmarthenshire County Council is behind the project, with funding from the Welsh Assembly. The aim is to encourage people to take up gentle exercise as well as introducing them to new friends.

Walk Your Way to Health Co-ordinator Mari-Ann Jones will support the group over the coming weeks and volunteer walk leaders will be given training to take it forward. She said: "The walk and swim project is aimed at increasing levels of physical activity in people aged 50 and over. "Walking and swimming are enjoyable exercises which improve physical health and mental well being.

"They can also reduce stress, promote relaxation and improve sleep. The scheme encourages people to make improvements to their health whilst having fun and enjoying the activity for free.

"There were seven of us at the first Carmarthen meeting which was very positive. We are hoping to attract more people every week and would invite anyone to attend."

The scheme is one of a number of projects being masterminded by the council to encourage people to get fit. It meets at 2.45pm every Monday from Carmarthen Leisure Centre. Other walk and swim groups start at 11.15am every Thursday at Amman Valley leisure centre reception.

Leisure executive board member cllr Clive Scourfield said: "I am very pleased that so much work is being carried out to encourage people to take up exercise. These are organised, led groups, with people able to enjoy free activities in a friendly environment. Exercise offers real health benefits as well as helping to build confidence and meeting new people.

"The council is committed to improving the health of the population and I am confident this group will be just as successful as the pilots in Llanelli and Ammanford."

For further information contact Mari-Ann Jones on 01554 747505.