PEOPLE in Durham are among the fittest in the country, according to research.

The year-long survey, conducted by Ipsos MORI on behalf of Sport England, revealed the city is the most active area in the region.

When it comes to participation in physical activity, Durham in the top 25 per cent of the UK.

Regular participation in sport and recreation was defined as taking part in moderate-intensity activity at least three days a week for half-an-hour.

The Active People Survey is the largest survey of sport and active recreation to be undertaken in Europe. It involved a telephone survey of 363,724 adults (aged 16 and over) in England.

Carol Woods, portfolio holder for leisure and environment, said: "This is a great result for the city, which reflects the work of the Leisure Services team to provide many different leisure opportunities for people in the district.

"As well as the five gyms, with different membership options and regular classes, there are also other events including walks and young people's sports days organised throughout the year."

Development of the swimming pool and leisure centre, with top-class facilities, is expected to get even more people involved in keeping fit. and healthy.