OLDER men from the Asian community have been getting on their bikes and pedalling towards healthier living.

The group from Oldham, who have been taking part in the eight-week NHS Shape Up programme, were given the chance to test-run some three-wheeler bikes in their latest activity.

After 30 minutes on the trikes the men took part in some seated exercises before enjoying a healthy lunch.

Over the weeks the group have been keeping food diaries resulting in a number of positive changes including having one chapatti instead of two and swapping high-calorie puddings for fruit salad. The group have also joined the weekly Nordic walking group at Alexandra Park every Thursday morning.

Ashraf Khan, one of the men taking part in the programme, is really feeling the benefits. He said: "I’ve had surgery on my knee and the sessions are really helping me. I’ve also learned lots of things, although I did eat too much during Eid – as we all do during festive occasions."

Margo Jackson, from Oldham Community Health Service’s health improvement team who co-ordinates the Shape Up programme, said: "It’s fantastic to see so many men interested in the programme and taking on board our messages about the importance of getting plenty of exercise and eating healthily."

• For further information call Margot on 0161 621 7150.