RESIDENTS aged over 55 are being urged to take up fitness activities aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles for older people.

The Say Go! scheme covers a range of activities at different venues across the borough, including sports, dance and yoga lessons.

It is organised by Age Concern Barnet, with funding from Barnet Council and Sport England.

The classes are run in partnership with a number of faith and community groups, including the Barnet African Caribbean Association, Barnet Asian Old People's Association and the Anand Day Centre, but anyone aged over 55 is welcome to attend.

A new ten-week course of tai chi was launched on Tuesday, aimed specifically at members of the borough's Ismaili Muslim community, to be held at the North London Jamatkhana, in East End Road, Finchley.

The classes will take place during the day and also offer a chance for members to socialise after the session.

Councillor Lynne Hillan, cabinet member for community services, said: "The Say Go! scheme provides a very important service for older people living in Barnet and helps to work towards the council's corporate priority of a strong and healthy borough.

"I hope that many of our residents aged over 55 take the opportunity to take part in one or more of the Say Go! classes as they continue to be rolled out and enhanced throughout the coming year."

For more information visit the council website at barnet.gov.uk/activities-for-older-people or call the council on 020 8359 2000.

Alternatively, call Lisa Dubow at Age Concern Barnet on 020 8346 0542 or by emailing lisa-finchley.acb@btconnect.com.