Elderberries have celebrated its 18th birthday. Instructor Ken Naylor lying at the front

A popular Barking and Dagenham exercise group giving the over 50s a chance to have fun and keep fit has celebrated its 18th birthday.

The group, which was set up and is managed by the council, has been running since 1994 when it had a core group of 25 members and was based at Goresbrook Leisure Centre.

The numbers grew and as a result another group was set up at Barking Abbey Sports Centre.

In January this year the Goresbrook classes moved to Becontree Heath Leisure Centre, where it attracted even more members.

The sessions include circuit exercises, aqua aerobics, badminton, table tennis and short matt bowls and offer people over 50 the chance to socialise, have fun and be active at the same time.

Anyone in Barking and Dagenham aged 60 or over can attend the classes, plus most other council run exercise facilities, for free.

Elderberries fitness instructor, Ken Naylor, said: “The Elderberries started as a small group but has continued to grow over the past 18 years.

“The sessions aims to encourage older people to participate in physical activity and try out different sports and games in order for them to lead a healthy lifestyle and tackle day to day tasks.

“The group is also very social and members regularly organise theatre and coastal trips; it’s a social group as well as an active group.”

For more information email danielle.robson@lbbd.gov.uk or call 020 8227 3982.