NEARLY two thirds of older people in the borough are not doing enough exercise according to Wigan Council's Older Persons' Network co-ordinator, Helen Coffey.

Now the council, Wigan borough Age Concern and the British Heart Foundation have teamed up to promote senior peer mentoring.

A dozen older volunteer mentors, trained by the council's Active Living Team, will visit homes throughout the borough to encouraging residents to join in activities.

Helen said: "Our mentors will be saying 'you're never too old to be more physically active and it really can make you feel better'.

"The benefits for older people are endless. Different types of physical activity can sharpen the mind, improve balance which helps to prevent falls, boost confidence and self esteem and create a general feeling of well-being.

"Mentors will be concentrating on sheltered housing schemes until October, then we plan to expand the scheme to reach as many older people as possible."