The Jolly Joggers are making their way back to West Park for another 12 week programme designed to improve people's mental health and wellbeing through exercise.

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The group met for the first time earlier this year - and proved so successful that they are coming back for more, starting next Saturday 23 April, 2016.

Participants are encouraged to set their own goals to walk, jog or run around the picturesque city centre park, while having fun at the same time.

The weekly sessions are held by the Dudley branch of Mind, the mental health charity, as part of its national Get Set to Go programme aimed at encouraging people to take up sport or physical activity to improve their mental health and wellbeing.

It also being supported by the City of Wolverhampton Council, and Director of Public Health Ros Jervis said: "Being physically active is proven to reduce the symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression and improve people's mood.

"This excellent initiative encouraging people to enjoy a walk, jog or run around West Park is having a fantastic effect on people's mental health and wellbeing, and I'd encourage anyone who may be feeling low because they are suffering from stress or anxiety to give it a go."

James Austin from Dudley Mind said: "Jolly Joggers is open to everyone because good mental health is important to us all, and it doesn't matter whether potential participants exercise regularly or not as they can run, jog or walk - it's very informal and the main thing is that people come along, have a go and enjoy themselves.

"After a successful and really enjoyable first run, we are coming back to West Park for another 12 week course, and we're looking forward to welcoming many new participants."

The Jolly Joggers will meet every Saturday for 12 weeks from 23 April. To take part, please meet at the Bandstand by 10.30am, wear suitable clothing and trainers and bring a drink.

For more information, please call James Austin at Dudley Mind on 01384 442938 or email james.austin@dudleymind.org.uk.

  • released: Friday 15 April, 2016