MENTAL health patients at the Friarage Hospital, in Northallerton, can now keep fit thanks to a donation of equipment.
The Friends of the Friarage Hospital worked with the primary care trust for Hambleton, Richmondshire and the Dales to buy a £600 exercise bike and rowing machine for one of the wards.
Staff from the nearby Hambleton Leisure Centre have been attending Ward 15, which helps patients with mental health problems, every Monday to run exercise sessions with patients and have reported that the equipment has made the programme more enjoyable.
Colin Wilkie, general manager of mental health services, said: "It gives patients the opportunity to exercise under the safe supervision of staff and encourages them to continue their exercise routine when they are discharged."
To join the Friends of the Friarage or help in the hospital shop for a few hours each week, contact Brian Thompson on (01609) 762013.
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