AGE does not need to be a barrier for people aged over 50 who want to take part in activities at a council's leisure and sports venues.

Sedgefield Borough Council is developing a programme of events specifically aimed at older visitors.

Among the activities already available are weekly circuit training exercise sessions at Spennymoor Leisure Centre, on Wednesdays, from 2pm to 3pm.

A trampoline taster session has been organised for Tuesday, September 11, from 2.15pm to 3.15pm, at Ferryhill Leisure Centre, which will be followed by regular weekly sessions from October 9.

Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre will hold swimming sessions, the first of which will be held on Monday, September 10, from 2pm to 3pm.

The sessions, known as the Zest programme, have been developed to cater for mature adults and will be led by an experienced instructor skilled in assessing the needs of all participants.

Liz Jordon, the council's health and fitness co-ordinator, said: "Physical activity is something anyone can enjoy, and is not the preserve of the young and active."

Mature residents can become involved with planning the new Zest sessions by making suggestions for new activities by calling the leisure services department, on 01388-816166.