Leisure centres across East Hampshire are offering free membership to people who are living with Parkinson’s.

Alton Sports Centre, Whitehill & Bordon Leisure Centre and Taro Leisure Centre in Petersfield, run by Everyone Active in partnership with East Hampshire District Council, offer the initiative co-designed with the charity Parkinson’s UK.

To commemorate World Parkinson’s Day, Alton Sports Centre is hosting a special event on Friday, April 11, offering local people living with Parkinson’s the opportunity to gain insights into the different ways they can live well and stay active.

Running from 1pm to 4 pm, attendees can enjoy a welcome talk and free tea and coffee, gym induction and drop in to Pickleball and Table Tennis sessions, while finding out more about how to sign up to a free Parkinson’s membership.

The local Parkinson’s support group will also be in attendance, to collect any donations and offer information on Parkinson’s support groups.

Chris West, Everyone Active’s contract manager, said: “We are immensely proud to be partnering with Parkinson’s UK for the fourth year running, and truly believe the membership makes a real difference to the lives of those living with the condition and their carers.

“We want to provide a safe and welcoming environment where the whole Parkinson’s community feel supported as they exercise, and are confident we have an activity for all, no matter what your age, ability or fitness level.”

Now in its fourth year, the Everyone Active and Parkinson’s UK free membership provides access to gym, swim and group exercise classes, as well as online Synergy Dance classes.

A free membership will also be given to up to three carers to provide additional support if needed.

Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world and there is currently no cure. It affects around 153,000 people in the UK and there are more than 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety.

Being physically active can play an important role in living well with Parkinson’s. Those living with the condition can find various activities, such as swimming, walking and dance, beneficial in managing their symptoms.

Anna Castiaux, physical activity programme lead at Parkinson's UK, said: "Being active can be one of the best ways for people to live well with Parkinson's and it's great to see that Everyone Active and our local group in East Hampshire will be supporting more people to try new activities for World Parkinson's Day.

"Everyone Active continues to offer free memberships for people living with Parkinson's and their carers, and it's fantastic that more people across East Hampshire will have an opportunity to get active in April."

Those with underlying health conditions such as heart problems, diabetes or breathing issues should contact their GP before starting any new activity.

For further information or to join, visit: www.everyoneactive.com/promotion/parkinsons.