FITNESS classes before the break of dawn are starting in Oldbury to satisfy an increasing demand for early morning exercise.

The Portway Lifestyle Centre are laying on the 7.30am fitness classes for regular gym users and those keeping up New Year resolutions.

The three 30 minute classes help weight loss, body toning and overall fitness and part of a drive to increase the fitness of local residents.

Portway fitness co-ordinator Kevin Daly said: "If you would like an early morning fitness buzz to kick start your day, then use the changing facilities and enjoy breakfast from the café, Portway Lifestyle Centre is your ticket to start your day."

The new £18 million lifestyle centre has a114 station gym, climbing facility and an extensive range of fitness classes including Zumba, BodyPump, Aerobics, Bums Legs and Tums, 30-minute classes, yoga and pilates.

Customers can pay for each activity or join Sandwell Leisure Trust’s One Card membership which includes unlimited fitness classes, gym sessions and swimming at all Sandwell leisure centres and costs £28.50 per month.

A Paralympics style Boccia club has also started at the club, the target ball sport is every Saturday between 1pm and 2pm and costs £1.

A Boccia club spokesman said: "Participants throw, kick or use a ramp to propel a ball onto the court with the aim of getting closest to a 'jack' ball

"A coach will be on hand to organise the sessions and get everyone joining in and having fun."

For more information please call 0300 012 0121 or visit the Portway Lifestyle Centre team for a tour of the building.