A PROJECT to help the over-50s in Darwen stay fit and healthy with a variety of sports and activities will be launched in the town next Friday.

The first in a planned series of healthy living and learning days will include tasters of activities such as kurling, tai chi, line dancing, aromatherapy, card-making, Spanish classes and computer tuition.

Advice on healthy eating and quitting smoking will also be available at the launch, at the Central United Reform Church, in Duckworth Street.

The event, run jointly by Age Concern and Blackburn with Darwen Council, will run from 9.30am to 3.30pm and visitors can stay for the whole day or just call in for as long as they like. Free refreshments and a buffet lunch will be provided.

Age Concern's ageing well co-ordinator Alison Hamer said: "The aim of this event is to encourage people, particularly the over-50s, to take an active interest in their own health and well-being while trying a new learning experience and having fun at the same time."

Dates for future taster days have not yet been set.