Health angels of the north

When it comes to looking after their health, Moston and Harpurhey residents are being urged: “Go on, be an angel.”

The Moston and Harpurhey Health Fortnight returns for the third time from Saturday 21 June to Sunday 6 July with a host of free or discounted events.

This year's theme is 'health angels' - highlighting the range of support and encouragement available to people in the area who want to boost their health, as well as encouraging them to listen to their 'inner angel.'

Councillor Basil Curley, the City Council's lead member for health issues, said: "We realise that when it comes to looking after yourself it isn't always easy to be an angel. But we also know that many residents recognise the importance of being healthy and happy and are keen to take steps towards healthier lifestyles.

"Fortunately, as this event underlines, there is a huge amount of help and encouragement available - not just during the fortnight itself but all year round."

The official launch event, a Bikes For All Family Fun and Cycling Day, takes place at Boggart Hole Clough on Sunday 22 June between 10am and 3pm.

Throughout the fortnight family swim sessions at North City Family and Fitness Centre in Harpurhey will be absolutely free, from 9am to 10.45am on Saturdays and Sundays. The offer applies to up to three adults and two children. Visitors to the Broadway Leisure Centre in Moston will also be able to enjoy use of its health suite and pool for the discounted price of just £2.30 on Friday 27 June and Friday 4 June.

MANCAT in Ashley Lane, Moston, will also be offering free gym sessions every weekday to residents aged over 16 from Saturday 21 June to Sunday 6 July. They are described as being perfect for anyone who wants to get into shape ahead of the summer holidays.

During the fortnight a one week trial membership of North City Family and Fitness Centre, including a full gym induction, costs just £10.

The Family and Fitness Centre also plays host to the Harpurhey heat of the Manchester Street Athletics competition on Friday 4 July.

Parents with toddlers and babies can join in too. One Big Buggy Push, a gentle walk around Boggart Hole Clough, takes place on Thursday 3 July between 1.30 and 2.30pm.

But the health fortnight is not just about helping people get more active. It is also highlighting the wealth of health advice and information available. Special events also include a Pregnancy Advice and Information session at Harpurhey Children's Centre, within the Family and Fitness Centre, from noon to 3pm on Tuesday 24 June. Manchester Stop Smoking Service will be pitching up at North City Shopping Centre on the city's Stop Smoking Day, Tuesday 1 July, helping people to pack in cigarettes.

Anyone hoping to get in trim can go along to a Waist Management Day at the NEPHRA allotment at Moston's Northfield Day Centre on Friday 27 June from 12 noon to 3pm. Activities include outdoor t'ai chi.

For details of the full range of activities available, both regular and one-off, Moston and Harpurhey residents should pick up copies of the health fortnight leaflet from local libraries and leisure centres.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Roger Williams, Press Office, tel: 0161 234 3275