Fun and Exercise - 'Grey Play' comes to Wyre Forest!

Wyre Forest District Council and Wyre Forest Community Housing have worked in partnership to bring outdoor exercise equipment to Baxter Gardens in Kidderminster. 

The equipment is specifically designed for use by older people and affectionately known as 'Grey Play'.  An additional benefit of the equipment is that it can be used by people who are less able as some of the exercise stations are accessible to wheelchair users. The equipment is designed to strengthen hips, tone legs and train the upper body. 

This project was kick started by the vision of a very special resident of Wyre Forest Community Housing.   Monica Boehmer is 64 and wants to play!  She read about a project that has been successful in north Manchester, where local residents have created a playground specifically for older people. 

Monica said:

"There are virtually no outside facilities for older or less able people to exercise locally.  This equipment is accessible to all, with no cost, and is fun to use.  It is so important to keep active all of your life; it helps to keep you happy and healthy". 

Monica has been championing this project for two years and has gained the support of Friends of Baxter Gardens and local councillors Graham Ballinger, Fran Oborski and Mumshad Ahmed. Collectively they have contributed £9,000 from the County Councillor Community Leadership for Health Fund. Wyre Forest Community Housing has contributed £6,000 to the project.

Yvonne Leishman, Managing Director of Wyre Forest Community Housing said:

"We have made 2010 our year to celebrate diversity and increase equality in all parts of our services and so we are really pleased to support this unique project which enables people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the benefits of fun and play."

Wyre Forest District Council parks team have managed the installation and will provide the ongoing maintenance of the equipment.

Councillor Tracey Onslow, Wyre Forest District Council's Cabinet Member for Community & Partnership Services said:

"Well done to Monica for championing this cause which we're delighted to support. It's great to see the community getting behind such a positive scheme too. I look forward to seeing residents enjoying their new play area!"

Photograph shows, Sandra Bridgwater, Monica Boehmer, Primrose Coley. Sandra and Primrose are members of the Blakedown Extend Exercise Club

Date of issue - 13th July 2010