PUTTING themselves through their paces has helped an east Durham couple recover from the shock of aggressive cancer and get back to health and fitness.

Carol Elvin, 61, of Peterlee, joined a community activity scheme after her husband, Terry, 65, was recovering from surgery and treatment for prostate cancer.

Mr Elvin, now hopefully well on the road to a full recovery, has also joined the Pavilion Active Community Exercise Scheme (PACES), at the Pavilion, Peterlee, where he does a bit of walking as well as being the only man in a regular dance class.

The scheme, for adults aged 40 to 74-years-old, offers a range of activities from a short healthy walk to body toning and high energy dance and is part of the Move4Life programme for adults of all ages at risk from cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Mrs Elvin, a former clerical officer with Durham County Council, said: “Together we faced a very uncertain future. Although I tried to keep positive sometimes I was in a very desolate place.”

“I heard about PACES and thought it might be just what I needed.”

She added: “My fitness has now improved and I have also started to play badminton.

“I can now walk at a much faster pace without becoming breathless. My husband, thank our dear Lord is doing well and the future looks very hopeful.”

Mr Elvin, a retired engineering story buyers said: “It is great fun and we both really enjoy it. The exercise is great and it is also a great way of meeting people.”

Activities project worker Elaine Hancock said: “Carol and Terry are an inspiration. They have great spirit and enthusiasm and show just what can be done with a positive attitude.”

The Move4Life programme is funded by Durham County Council Public Health and managed by County Durham Sport.

For more information on Paces, contact 0191-586-9957 or email paces@peterlee.gov.uk.