ALMOST 150 families in a borough have downloaded new activity apps since the lockdown started last year.

The pandemic has caused a cycling and walking uptake spike in Blackburn with Darwen since the first lockdown last March.

The free activity apps, East Lancs Cycling and Explore BwD, are proving popular particularly with beginners (34 per cent) and those who consider themselves at an intermediate level (57 per cent).

Blackburn with Darwen Council's health and wellbeing boss Cllr Damian Talbot said: "Being fit and active helps you fight diseases including Covid-19.

"These free apps are like a personal trainer in your pocket, motivating you on days when your get up and go seems to have got up and gone. It’s fantastic to see so many families making the most of this technology to get active.”

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