THERE is no time like the present to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

That is the message from Hartlepool Exercise for Life (Help) co-ordinator Margaret Boddy, who said a healthy lifestyle could turn lives around.

"When it comes to adopting a healthy lifestyle, why not start the new year with a resolution for life, rather than just for a year?" said Ms Boddy.

"A healthy lifestyle is not just about yo-yo dieting, it is looking at your whole self and how you can improve your lifestyle to meet your goals.

"It can involve looking more closely at what you eat, suitable exercises to make you feel more energetic, activities to relax the mind and body and getting the information you need to help make your life healthier and happier."

Shapes and Sizes classes are being held at two venues. They are jointly organised by Hartlepool Borough Council's sports development team and a community nutritionist from the NHS.

The classes are being held at:

* Rossmere Youth Centre, on Tuesdays, from 9.30am to 11.30am

* West View Advice and Resource Centre, on Wednesdays, from 10am to 11.30am

For details of the Rossmere course, call Ms Boddy on (01429) 861866, for the West View course, contact Jeanette Mercer on (01429) 292555.