The UK's first playground specifically for older people has opened near Manchester.
The "older people's play area" in Dam Head Park, Blackley, in north Manchester, features six pieces of equipment - featuring the slogan "Never too old to play" - designed to provide gentle exercise.
The playground, which officially opened yesterday after being tested by locals aged over 70, cost 15,000 ($30,000) to build.
Established by a Residents Association, it includes equipment for upper body exercise, training leg muscles, hip exercise, and stomach and leg training.
The equipment was installed after a member of the residents association saw a newspaper article about a similar facility in Germany.
Gordon Lishman, director general of the charity Age Concern, said the playground could help older people maintain good physical and mental health.
He said: "A well-designed fitness park could be a great way to encourage older people to exercise. Exercising a few times a week can make a big difference to someone's health.
"Equally, socializing with others can help to alleviate feelings of loneliness and depression.
"Many older people aren't exercising enough and we are really keen for local authorities to offer a range of accessible and affordable facilities that promote physical activity in later life."
Source: China Daily/Agencies
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