1:00pm Thursday 11th March 2010
By Sam Chadderton
A TRAVELLING bus with a mobile gym and kitchen area will be piloted in Darwen.
The ‘Health Buzz’ is the first of its kind anywhere in the country and is designed to improve the health of the town’s residents.
The innovative service is the brainchild of Blackburn with Darwen Health Living, offering easy access to gym facilities and a health education centre.
Healthy Living manager Abdul Mulla, said: “Thanks to the enthusiasm of the team we’ve been able to get the Health Buzz from the drawing board to the road in just 18 months.
“We’ve been delighted with the support we’ve had from local communities and businesses and are excited by the possibilities.
“We have already started linking in with schools and local employers and are very encouraged by their respon-se so far.
“The service is flexible and our team can tailor sessions to the needs of individual schools, work places and community organisations wishing to commission our service.”
The initiative has been backed to the tune of £15,000 by Twin Valley Homes and received support from the Darwen and Rural Neighb-ourhood Board.
Chairman John Sturgess said: “This is something we believe will make a real difference to people especially those in rural areas who might not have access to public transport because the Health Buzz will travel to them.”
Twin Valley executive director Kevin Ruth said: “We’re delighted to be in a position to support this project, as helping people live healthier and more active lives will contribute to making the borough a better place to live.”
The mobile gym was due to be launched this week with pupils from Darwen’s Holy Trinity Primary School testing the equipment at the Market Hall entrance.
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