KEEP FIT enthusiasts from Thornbury and Hengrove have been recognised as ambassadors for active over-60s in a national award scheme.

The 75-strong group, which has a membership age ranging from 60 to 83 years, has received a Stay Active Award - a contribution of £250 towards keeping up their active lifestyle and providing inspiration to other over-60s.

The group meets twice a week - on a Tuesday at Christchurch Hall, in Hengrove, and on a Thursday at Cossham Hall, in Thornbury - to take part in keep fit classes organised by Jean Jones.

The Stay Active campaign was launched by Staywarm from Powergen - the unique fixed cost electricity and gas scheme solely for the over-60s.

Staywarm's local adviser, Verity Edwards, said: "We launched a search for ambassadors for active over-60s across Bristol and were inundated with entries. It seems there are many active over-60s out there, getting involved with a variety of sports, leisure and hobbies. We're delighted to present this award to the members of the keep fit group and hope that other over-60s will be encouraged to join them."

Keep fit group organiser, Jean Jones said: "We were delighted to get this award from Staywarm. The money will be used to fund the cost of the group performing at the Bristol Festival. We hope that our performance will encourage other over-60s to join similar groups. It's so refreshing that a company like Staywarm is recognising that elderly people are interested in leading active lives."

As part of the Stay Active campaign, Staywarm will also be helping to spread vital advice to older people on ways to keep mobile, using NHS guidelines.

The advice, outlined in NHS Keep Warm, Keep Well leaflets, will be distributed by Staywarm advisers at meetings across the community.

"Moving around generates extra body heat, so any kind of activity will help to keep you warm," said Professor Ian Philp, the Department of Health's national director for older people's services.

"We advise older people who are able, to undertake moderate exercise such as walking, as it provides real health benefits if you do it regularly all year round. We are delighted Stay Active is encouraging people who can do so, to enjoy active lifestyles."

For further details of the competition or to nominate an individual or group for a Stay Active Award please write to: Stay Active at Alexandra House, 2 Well Lane, Leeds, LS7 4PQ.