A group offering exercise classes and a social space for older Thetford residents has marked its 10th birthday with a party at Fulmerston Church.
Life is for Living, set up by June Lewis and Suzanne Norman, has the tagline “exercise without lycra,” and is open to people of all mobility levels. June and Sue began the group after seeing a gap in local provision. Initial funding from the Silk Purse Fund, plus generous donations from the United Reform Church, member Vasanti Patel and more, have helped to keep the group accessible.
“There was nowhere for older people to go, and no one teaching the sort of exercises that older people needed,” said Suzanne. “At our first session back in 2015 we only had 8 people, over the years it’s grown and grown. We’ve had people recovering from strokes, Parkinson’s and cancer, as well as people who come for the social aspect. I love looking around the room and seeing people who live alone, socialising with a cup of tea.”
The group also enjoy annual social trips out, with visits to places such as Gt Yarmouth Hippodrome and the Norfolk Broads enabling the group to enjoy some time together outside the class.
The tenth birthday party featured a murder mystery event, with a buffet provided by Tall Orders. Members were joined by current instructor Ben, as well as the group’s previous trainer, Emma. Tim Lovejoy from Fulmerston Church praised the group: “It’s easy to say ‘that’s an older person, they can go to bingo,’ but we’re all different! I love that we can offer a variety of activities for people.”
Life is for Living meets every Friday morning at Fulmerston Church and costs £4 per session with an optional £1 raffle. If you’re over 50 and looking to improve your mobility, why not go along?
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