A PROJECT has delivered more than 4,000 sessions to help people get fit.

The Get Active programme, delivered by the Easington office of the County Durham Primary Care Trust, was launched in January 2003.

Yesterday, staff held an event at The Glebe Centre, in Murton, to celebrate its achievements in delivering 4,295 sessions across the district, which have been attended by more than 43,500 people.

The Get Active programme aims to get more people more active more often, increase participation in physical activity and improve the health and wellbeing of the people of Easington district. It organises sport and play sessions for people of all ages and abilities, including cycling and walking programmes, equipment loan schemes and an exercise referral scheme involving local GPs.

Team leader Jacqui Deakin said: "In 2006, the Get Active programmes have developed significantly with the introduction of a variety of new sessions across the district, including an exercise referral cycle tour, tai chi classes, circuit classes at Blackhall Community Centre and two health walks at Haswell and Blackhall.

"The introduction of these new sessions has enabled Get Active to deliver 4,295 sessions across the district, and helped 43,592 people to get involved in physical activity as a way to improve their individual health and wellbeing."

Yesterday's event was designed to encourage more people to get involved in the project.

Mrs Deakin added: "This is a great opportunity to celebrate the success and developments of the project over the past 12 months."