A THERAPEUTIC Tai Chi class for people suffering from rheumatic and muscular conditions has proved so successful that organisers are planning to set up a second session.

Burnley Council's Tai Chi classes started in September and since then attendance has jumped from seven to 20 people. Because of the increased demand the council's healthy lifestyle team is setting up a second class in the New Year.

Both classes will be held at Bethesda United Reformed Church, Bethesda Street. The current classes are on Tuesdays between 11.15am-12.15pm and the new classes will be on Thursdays from 2.30-3.30pm. Classes are £1 a session.

Coun Janice Swainston, executive member for social welfare, said: "I'm particularly happy with the success of this class which enables those people who thought they were unable to exercise the opportunity to do so."

Linda Searle, of the healthy lifestyles team, said: "Rheumatologists and Tai Chi experts developed Tai Chi for arthritis as an appropriate and therapeutic form of exercise for rheumatic and muscular conditions.

"Some of the benefits are increased flexibility, strength and co-ordination, balance and poise."

For further details on the classes call the council's healthy lifestyles team on 01282 477222.