AN indoor golf scheme has been launched to help keep older people fit and active.

Featuring oversized balls with Velcro-style sections that stick to felt targets, the game allows people to tee off and putt while playing on custom-built courses that help tune their motor skills.

Yvonne Skellern-Foster, of NHS East Lancashire's Falls Prevention Team, said the activity could be invaluable as part of falls prevention work. And she said the sport had proved so popular that an East Lancashire league and even inter-county competitions could start.

Her comments came after the region’s first Rookie Golf event, a partnership between NHS East Lancashire, Lancashire Fire and Rescue and housing and care provider the Anchor Trust, at Haslingden Community Link centre.

Yvonne said: “It's an innovative way to get people enjoying themselves.

“If they are doing an activity and having fun they don't feel they are doing exercise as such, but they are getting all the benefits, both health and social.

“Following the very successful event we have had a number of enquiries from community groups and care homes who wish to take up this activity.

“People who might be put off by usual activities found it interesting and really got stuck in.”

The game is based on research by the University of Newcastle.

Health professionals from the north east helped run the first session on Friday and Yvonne said interest has now been expressed by the likes of Pendle Seniors Group and church groups in Rossendale.

Yvonne said: “It is totally inclusive and can be played by all ages and abilities. It can be part of community events and celebrations, played at sheltered housing, outdoors or indoors, is a fun game with colourful equipment and helps people to socialise.”

To find out more, call Yvonne or Debbie Sharples on 01200 420378.