Keeping fit in the fresh air is a great idea say council leaders

SEATON’S new outdoor gym got its first official workout on Saturday.

The free facility in Seafield Gardens was formally opened by town and district councillor Steph Jones, accompanied by Mayor Peter Burrows and county councillor Jim Knight.

Mrs Jones told the gathering : “It is very pleasing to see Seaton leading the way again, with our new outdoor gym, particularly as it has a focus on the health and well being of the older generation.

“I would like to particularly thank Julia Roebuck, a former Seaton town councillor for being proactive in starting off the project to enable Seaton to access �75,000 of Section 106 monies from developers for sports facilities in the town and suggesting the concept of an outdoor gym along with the Senior Council for Seaton.

“The senior council, along with Alison King, from Seaton Hospital, made an important contribution into the steering group that has brought this project forward. I would also like to thank all the residents who took the trouble to come out and vote for the winning design and the officers at East Devon District Council who have worked on this project for the last few months.

“Using the innovative concept of an outdoor gym means that residents and visitors alike can undertake their exercises whilst enjoying the fresh air and lovely surroundings that Seaton provides.”

Mr Burrows said: “I was one of the people who voted for this scheme and it is a brilliant idea to help keep people fit. I work with elderly people and I know the importance in mobility. As town mayor I am going to ask the league of friends to provide some more equipment in other areas in Seaton so that others can benefit. The Senior Council for Seaton will also hopefully be pressing for something similar.”

Photographs Ian Barradale.