THE Mayor of Dudley is urging people to get park active to help improve their health and wellbeing for free this new year.

Dudley Council runs weekly 45-minute outdoor sessions as part of its Park Active initiative.

Family-friendly sessions are delivered by qualified volunteers and designed to suit people of all ages and abilities.

The Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Anne Millward, met with the volunteers at Stevens Park to find out more and even took the opportunity to have a go herself.

She said: "It was great to meet with the volunteers at Stevens Park to find out more about how the sessions can help encourage people to get moving and improve their fitness.

"The volunteers play a big part in making these sessions happen every week so I would like to offer my thanks to each and every one of them for giving up their time and leading by example.

"Park active is great for everyone, whether it’s someone who is already a fitness fanatic or those who are new to this kind of exercise and want to test the water and begin their journey to a healthier lifestyle without making a financial commitment.

"Families are welcome too. A great way to get the kids up, outside and active at weekends."

Volunteers guide people through the sessions at their own pace, which make them ideal for anyone who has never taken part in this kind of activity before or for anyone who is more experienced.

Sessions are held at Stevens Park in Quarry Bank on Mondays, meeting at the bandstand at 10am, at Stevens Park in Wollescote on Saturdays, meeting on the main car park at 9.45am and at Grange Park in Dudley on Sundays, meeting at the bandstand at 10am.

A new session has also launched at the Dell Stadium on Sundays from 11am to 11.45am.

Booking for all sessions is essential. People can search for Park Active on Eventbrite.

All sessions are weather dependent.

No additional equipment is required, participants should wear suitable clothing and footwear and take hand sanitiser and a drink.

To find out more visit www.lets-get.com/explore/healthy-hubs/park-active/