A SERIES of new outdoor sports sessions aim to get Bishop Auckland and Shildon residents in shape this summer.

Durham County Council is offering a wide range of physical activities to encourage families to get more active and make more use of local parks and recreational grounds.

As part of the new Parklife scheme, sessions aimed specifically at over 50s are taking place every week and there are still spaces available for those wanting to get involved.

Among the many fun activities on offer are tennis, cricket, football, table tennis and gentle exercise classes.

All activities are led by a friendly and qualified coach in outdoor park areas and anyone interested in joining in is also welcome to suggest other activities they would like to try.

The sessions cost £2 and take place at Bishop Auckland Recreation Ground between 10.30am and noon on Thursdays, or at Shildon’s Hackworth Park between 10.30am and noon.

The Parklife programme is delivered in partnership with Sport England and Change4life.

It also features a series of monthly events, including an archery session for all ages at Bishop Auckland Recreation Ground on Saturday, May 30, from 11am to 2pm.

The cost is £1 per child and parents can join in for free.

For regular updates on the Parklife programme visit facebook.com/parklifesports or log on to www.durham.gov,uk/parklife.

To find out more, contact 03000-262797.