FAMILIES are being encouraged to start their New Year’s resolutions early with a free weekend of workouts in County Durham.

Visitors to the centres will be offered free access to gyms, swimming and selected exercise classes from November 28 to 30.

The free weekend is taking place at the Abbey, Chester-le-Street, Freeman's Quay, Meadowfield, Newton Aycliffe, Riverside, Shildon-Sunnydale, Spennymoor, Teesdale and Woodhouse Close leisure centres.

Andy Brown, Durham County Council’s principal physical activity manager, said: “We are keen to see as many visitors as possible come to the centres and try out the facilities.

“And to encourage them to return again and again anyone who joins the gym during the weekend will get one month free.”

For more information and to find your local council run leisure centre visit durham.gov.uk/leisurecentres