A new outdoor gym - hoping to provide its community with a free, accessible place to exercise - has opened. 

Sherburn Village Outdoor Gym was officially opened on Thursday morning (October 3) after being in the works for around 18 months. 

Situated near Durham City Village Gymnastics and the Sherburn football pitch, the new outdoor gym replaces previous equipment that had become "tired". 

(Image: The Northern Echo)

Gym installation was finished only a few weeks ago and Sherburn residents have already started to make the most of the new facilities. Sue Mason, the chair of the Parish Council, said that she had seen young men using the equipment. 

Sue added: "This is a space for everyone to use, and as it is free, will hopefully help people save on gym membership with the ongoing cost of living crisis. 

(Image: The Northern Echo)

"My hope is that it won't just be used for exercise, but also for people to come and connect with each other."

The project, funded by nearby housing developments, will be maintained by Durham County Council. 

(Image: The Northern Echo) City of Durham MP Mary Kelly Foy stopped by to officially open the Sherburn Village Outdoor Gym, cutting the ribbon and promising that she would be down at the weekend to give all the equipment a whirl. 

Most read:

She commented: "The new outdoor gym is testament to the hard work and dedication of Sherburn Parish Council and Labour Councillor David Hall.

"It was great to join them on Thursday to officially open the facility. The equipment is top quality and, better still, free to use.

"I hope local residents embrace the opportunity to use this brilliant addition to the area."