AN inspirational husband and wife have been named health champions for their efforts after they joined a project to help disabled people lead fitter lives.
Strevan (correct) Clough, 42, and his wife Kay, 51, of Ferryhill, are members of Endeavour Woodcraft CIC.
The Ferryhill group helps people who have learning and mental problems to become independent by making wooden items.
Its members are also able to attend Move4Life fitness sessions which are run by the Pioneering Care Partnership.
The fitness group is supported by Durham County Council’s public health team and County Durham Sport.
It has helped more than 18,000 people nationally lead more active lives. Mr and Mrs Clough took up boxercise classes and they lost nearly a stone between them in just six weeks.
Their efforts have led to them been named as the care partnership’s Endeavour Health Champions.
Mr Clough said: “We like to keep fit and eat foods that can help us to stay healthy. It is nice to take part in fitness at Endeavour because it is fun and we all work together.
“We are very happy to be the Endeavour Health Champions and we are going to help our friends at Endeavour to learn how to stay fit and eat better things.”
The sessions take place at the Old Fire Station, on Darlington Road, in Ferryhill. Mr and Mrs Clough are being trained to pass on their skills to others.
Louise Killip, Endeavour Woodcraft CIC support manager, said: “Obesity and the health problems that go with it are quite common amongst people with learning difficulties.
“Not only can it be harder to access activities, but often they are not getting the information or advice that they need.
“Strevan and Kay were really keen to find out ways that they could live healthier and more active lives and it is wonderful that they will now be able to pass on their new skills to others.”
PCP health trainer Catriona Grimes said: “Kay and Strevan have really embraced everything they have learned on the course and have been chosen as our health trainer champions.
“This means they will be able to help carry on supporting the group once our project has ended.”
To find out more about Move4Life courses visit countydurhamsport.com/physical_activity/move4life
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