Leisure centres in the Cotswolds are set to relaunch group exercise classes from Monday in what has been called “a huge boost” for the mental health of the community.

Following the latest announcement from Government, group exercise has been given the green light to resume in the penultimate stage of the four-step roadmap.

Everyone Active’s Leisure Centres in Cirencester, Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Campden, run in partnership with Cotswold District Council, reopened on Monday, April 12, after three months of closure due to coronavirus restrictions.

Jamie Nesbit, contract manager at Everyone Active, said: “We are delighted to be able to safely resume group exercise classes in our centres.

“Aside from the obvious physical benefits, this will be a huge boost for mental health and wellbeing in the Cotswolds and comes at an apt time following the start of Mental Health Awareness Week.”

Cllr Jenny Forde, cabinet member for health and wellbeing at Cotswold District Council, added: “I’m thrilled that we are now preparing to introduce group exercise classes back to our Leisure Centres.

“It’s great that people will be able to get back to doing what they love, or maybe even taking up a new activity.

“Group exercise is incredibly important for our mental health and with this being Mental Health Awareness Week this incredible news comes at a perfect time as physical activity and the social aspects of group activity play such an important role in boosting our physical and mental wellbeing.

“It’s also really encouraging to see everyone’s collective efforts in following the rules paying off.

“While it is important to keep following the rules, keeping fit and healthy is equally important and this is a major step towards that for our communities.”