Dudley Council is looking for health champions to help coach free Park Active fitness sessions in borough parks.

Park Active launched more than four years ago to encourage people to get active for free in their local park. The sessions, led by volunteers, are suitable for all ages and fitness levels and are family friendly too.

Since launching, more than 3,000 people have participated in a session and more than 30 people have volunteered to run them. The next round of free training is now available for anyone that would like the opportunity to boost their skills and volunteer.

The free training includes first aid, safeguarding and fitness qualifications as well as kit to support delivery. The induction date for new volunteers is 19 July, followed by training on September 3 and 9. Councillor Ian Bevan, cabinet member for public health, said:

"Park Active has been possible in the last four years thanks to the efforts of our volunteers who have dedicated their time to helping others improve their fitness and wellbeing.

"We hope volunteers feel they have as much to gain as those who take part in the sessions. They can meet new friends, build confidence, and potentially open new opportunities for employment.

"If anyone is interested in exploring volunteering opportunities with us, I’d urge them to get in touch or pop along to one of the weekly sessions and chat with the volunteers".

Penny Ladd, park active volunteer at Grange Park, added: "I’ve been volunteering with park active for more than four years, and I love it. You get to meet lots of lovely people and make new friends.

"It’s lovely coming to Grange Park every Sunday morning, we’re there in all weathers and welcome new people to take part in the sessions "

Sessions are held weekly at Stevens Park, Quarry Bank on Mondays at 10am, Buffery Park, Kates Hill on Wednesdays at 9.30am, at Stevens Park in Wollescote on Saturdays at 9.45am, at Grange Park in Dudley on Sundays at 10am and at Abbey Street Park, in Gornal on Saturdays at 9am.