AFTER the indulgences of Christmas, minds traditionally turn to getting fit and healthy.

And for people in the Rose Hill area a new scheme will give them an extra boost.

Thanks to funding from the Rose Hill Lottery programme and NHS Oxfordshire, there are 30 free places on a Weight Watchers course for Rose Hill residents – the first scheme of its kind on the estate.

Rose Hill mum-of-four Kerry Barrett, 33, is hoping to lose about five stone on the course. She said: “It is great to have it in our local area. In the past people had to travel to go to Weight Watchers. It will get a lot of people motivated. Hopefully this will be what I need to get healthy again.”

Weight Watchers leader Banso Biersack said: “I am excited to be running this programme. I think it is a great motivation for people to lose weight. It is rewarding to see people getting to their goal weight.”

Ali Hall, volunteer co-ordinator for the project, said: “January is the perfect time to think about our health and wellbeing. I think this will be a great opportunity for people to come together and get good quality support.”

The Rose Hill Lottery programme and NHS Oxfordshire have funded 15 places each, worth a total of about £1,700.

Also on offer to Rose Hill Weight Watcher members are free fitness sessions with personal trainer Jason Biles.

Mr Biles, who is health and fitness manager at Chipping Norton’s Heythrop Park, said: “It is a fabulous scheme and the timing is excellent. What is really nice about this idea is to link up with exercise.”

Those who need to lose at least 7lbs in weight and are motivated to lose weight can apply for one of the free places.

Residents can also ask their GP for a free referral to the course.

 

Details...

  • The 12-week Weight Watchers course starts at 6.30pm on Wednesday, at Rose Hill Children’s Centre in Ashhurst Way.
  • The course costs £6.25 per session or £21.45 for a monthly pass. There is a promotion available online that offers the first month at £10.70.
  • For more details or to apply for a free place contact Fran Gardner on 07770 324 277 or Beccy Clacy on 01865 336830.