OLYMPIC gold medal winner Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson is to start a programme of fitness and activities to encourage healthier lifestyles.

Redcar-based Dame Tanni will launch the Redcar and Cleveland Physical Activity Strategy on Thursday.

The event takes place at Laurence Jackson School, Guisborough, with a programme of sports and activities for all ages.

Primary school youngsters can try out sports hall athletics, basketball, netball, tag rugby, football, cycle proficiency training and orienteering.

Meanwhile, adults will have the chance to try out activities ranging from pilates and yoga to health walks and gym inductions.

Pre-school children will also be catered for with traditional games.

Dame Tanni, who has recently been granted Freedom of the Redcar and Cleveland, said: "Physical activity is a vital element in today's society, both from the point of view of the able-bodied and those with disabilities.

"Physical activity does not need to be lycra-clad and difficult. It is an enjoyable and pleasurable way of winding down.

"A walk after work helps relieve stress, while just as a swim before work improves concentration and energy levels," she said.

The aim of the strategy is to ensure that everybody who lives or works in Redcar and Cleveland has access to a range of opportunities that will benefit their health.

Copies of the strategy are available from Langbaurgh PCT Health Promotion, Unit 309, Vienna Court, Kirkleath-am Business Park, Redcar TS10 5SH.