A GROUP looking to improve the health of people in east Durham has been given a cash injection.

The Murton Wellbeing Group has been able to turn a successful trial into regular weekly sessions to help improve health in the community after securing support from believe housing.

The grass roots group, formed just a few months ago, has received £500 to purchase equipment including exercise mats, skipping ropes and sports equipment.

It now offers sessions every Friday, featuring fun activities to help members improve their understanding of how to look after the body and take part in a range of activities including curling, carpet bowls, crafts and yoga.

Katie Wooton, from Murton Wellbeing Group, said: “Since the group has started there has been a noted improvement in both physical and mental wellbeing among the users.

“We are all looking forward to growing the group in size and strength and stride towards a healthier future.”

The sessions at Macrae House in Murton are designed to help with both physical and mental wellbeing with mindfulness, relaxation and one-to-one support also available.

Funding Officer at believe housing, Damian Pearson, said: “The group behind this project are so enthusiastic and it’s great to see the practical results from our support so quickly.

“When we created our community funding programme it was grass roots groups, like this one, that we had in mind.

“The team here have taken a relatively small amount of funding and turned it into a valuable resource for their community that will pay dividends for a long time to come.”

The Murton Wellbeing Group have also worked with other organisations including Wellbeing for Life to make their project successful.

David Hall from Wellbeing for Life said: “The funding has enabled them to purchase exercise equipment which has made a big difference. The enthusiasm and commitment shown by this group has been inspiring.”