Awareness

Over-60s are offered a Golden Pass to fitness

THE Vale Council’s Golden Pass Project has been recognised by a national sporting organisation as it aims to support older residents to be more active.

Sport Wales highlighted the scheme as being a “sector leader” in the area. The Golden Pass offers Vale residents over the age of 60 who are currently inactive the chance to have eight free activity sessions in their community. The aim is to help participants stay active beyond the initial free sessions.

Marlene Simmonds (centre) with Tom Geere from the Golden Pass Project and Tracie Randall, the owner of Marlene’s local gym.
| Marlene Simmonds (centre) with Tom Geere from the Golden Pass Project and Tracie Randall, the owner of Marlene’s local gym.

One of those to benefit is Sandra Goodchap, who joined the Golden Pass scheme through her local gym in Llandow while recovering from a broken hip. The sessions played a key role in supporting her rehabilitation.

Sandra said: “This has just been absolutely wonderful, I’m able to do all of the things I wanted to do again and it’s strengthened my body.”

Marlene Simmonds is another resident who has benefitted from the scheme, she said: “It’s helped me tenfold really, I’m feeling more confident in myself and coming to the gym has also helped me with my mental health as I live on my own and struggled to find somewhere that was suitable for me.

“My mobility has increased tremendously – especially at the gym – as I am now able to get on to quite a lot of the equipment without help.”

Cllr Gwyn John. Photo: Vale Council
| Cllr Gwyn John.
Photo: Vale Council.

Cllr Gwyn John, the Vale Council cabinet member for Leisure, Sport and Well-being, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Golden Pass making such a difference in people’s lives. Projects like this are about more than just physical activity, they help rebuild confidence, improve wellbeing, and ensure residents like Sandra and Marlene stay connected and independent.”

To find out more about the scheme, visit www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/goldenpass

News, Letters, Sport and advertising are welcomed by the Glamorgan Star – the largest newspaper or magazine in the Vale of Glamorgan. Contact us today here.

⭐ All of our social media in one handy place – here

Glamorgan Star news - To advertise with the Glamorgan Star call us.
| CLICK ABOVE TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS IN THE VALE’S LARGEST PRINTED NEWSPAPER.

Glamorgan Star news

Founded in early 2021 by ex-Glamorgan GEM staff following its closure during the Covid pandemic. Now, the largest circulated, printed, newspaper or magazine in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Related Articles

Back to top button