Almost 5000 people checked out the facilities at Hambleton’s four leisure centres last weekend.

They were able to ‘have a go’ at everything from gym classes and swimming to dance and boxing – and all for free.

It was the second year running the district council has thrown open the doors of its leisure centres for free to allow Hambleton residents to see what is on offer. It also tied in with the NHS campaign ‘Change 4 Life’ which aims to increase the number of people taking part in regular exercise.

The open weekend in Northallerton, Thirsk, Stokesley and Bedale on October 10 and 11 saw sauna sessions, taster fitness classes, hyper holiday drop-in sessions and free health checks on offer. There were also guided tours of the facilities and free gym trials. Discounts on gym membership were popular and saw 150 people joining their local centre.

“The weekend was a massive success as part of our goal to increase participation in physical activity,” said Marketing Manager, Leanne Dunning. “Providing free taster opportunities to new and existing customers is a great incentive to encourage people to become more active. There was a real buzz at each of the centres – we had something for everyone to try in the diverse range of activities on offer for all ages, needs and abilities. “