Residents in Ash can now enjoy the use of outdoor gym equipment that has been installed on the village recreation ground.

Maintaining and improving facilities on the recreation ground is a top priority for Ash Parish Council, and this is a major upgrade for the village.

Graham Foat, chairman of the parish council, said: “We are delighted to provide new facilities for our residents.

"With more than 100 miles of footpaths in the parish and many active sports clubs, local people have always had lots of opportunities to be active.

“The eight pieces of equipment offer 12 stations, which provide a variety of exercises for adults and older children.

“Funding for the equipment has been provided by local charities the Frank Kingsland Bequest and the Jack Foat Trust and the parish council.

“We are very grateful to the charities for their financial support, and they must be pleased that the gym is already being well used.”

The equipment has been manufactured and installed by the Great Outdoor Gym Company.

It comprises a handbike, a spinning bike, a leg raise, a cross trainer, a treadmill, a chest press, a leg press and a recumbent bike.