LEISURE centres have closed their doors amid the coronavirus outbreak - but the organisation which runs facilities in Hexham and Prudhoe is still keen to keep people fit and active.

Active Northumberland believes that residents can raise their spirits by working out within their own homes.

A series of online classes are now available, which have been put together in recent weeks by Active Northumberland fitness instructors.

They have formed a bank of fitness class videos which last around 30 minutes each, and are aimed at being accessible to all.

Instructors are also planning to continue to deliver daily Mover and Shaker live classes on Facebook.

Live classes will also last around 30 minutes, and there will be the opportunity to comment and interact with the instructors.

People who are members of Active Northumberland will automatically have their membership frozen, so they are not out of pocket, and their membership will be reactivated once the Government gives the green light to reopen leisure facilities.

Mark Warnes, chief executive of Active Northumberland, said: “Over the coming weeks, if not months, we will all have to adapt to new ways of working and going about our daily lives.

“But I would encourage residents to try to make exercise, in some shape or form, a part of their daily routine.

“We hope our online sessions will help local residents and we are also continuing to explore more ways we can get physical activity and exercise to you.

“We know that exercise is great for reducing stress and boosting the mood and that it has a positive impact on our wellbeing. This has never been more important than during the current unprecedented situation.

“While our centres are closed, we are hoping our staff will play a vital role in assisting Northumberland County Council to provide invaluable support to maintain vital services and keep people safe.

“We will continually monitor advice from the government so we can reopen as quickly as possible when the time comes.”

To access the classes visit http://www.activenorthumberland.org.uk/Active-at-Home.aspx and www.facebook.com/ActiveNland.