UP to 250 free places are available after the launch of an innovative new exercise and fitness course.

Peak Performance, developed by Blackburn College, is being run by Pendle Council at four leisure centres in the borough.

Anyone over 16 can join the course, which is aimed at improving performance and giving people a better understanding of the benefits of having a personal exercise programme.

Leisure services marketing officer Michael Hunt said: "This is a tremendous opportunity for people in the region as it is based on highly successful methods.

"It is ideal for everyone who wants to gain an understanding of the benefits of exercise.

"At the end of the course participants should be able to create a planned exercise programme for themselves.

"This will make them healthier and fitter to cope with the demands of whichever sport or lifestyle they choose."

The self-study course, which has been developed by Blackburn College and normally costs £175, involves completing three work books.

People can study at their own pace either at home or at their leisure centre.

A special telephone help-line has been set up by the college.

The course takes around 90 hours to complete.

To secure a place on the course or find out more, people can visit Pendle Leisure Centre, Colne, West Craven Sports Centre, Barnoldswick, Seedhill Athletics and Fitness Centre, Nelson, or Pendle Wavelengths, Nelson.

Free places are open to people who enrol before the end of this month.

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