Free pool and gym for people with Parkinson's

A number of leisure centres have offered free membership to people with Parkinson’s Disease in a bid to help them stay healthy and active.

Since it was launched in South Warwickshire, almost 70 people have taken up the offer, bosses said.

Leisure centres in Stratford-upon-Avon, Southam, Shipston, Studley and Alcester are among those taking part.

It was set up by Everyone Active, which manage the centres in partnership with Stratford-on-Avon District Council, and charity Parkinson’s UK.

Parkinson's disease is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years, according to the NHS.

It says the main symptoms are involuntary shaking, slow movement as well as stiff and inflexible muscles.

The council said it is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world and there is currently no cure for it.

They added that the condition affects around 153,000 people in the UK.

Richard Bell, contract manager at Everyone Active, said: "Exercise is so important for living well with Parkinson's and can help improve both physical fitness and mental wellbeing.

People living with the condition have found taking part in various activities helps them with their symptoms.

Thursday marked World Parkinson's Day and a group of high profile Parkinson's suffererers presented a "Parky Charter" to No 10.

The charter makes five key recommendations including swift access to specialists under the NHS and increased funding to help find a cure.

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