A FREE family fun day will be held at the West Somerset Sports and Leisure Centre in Minehead next Saturday (March 5) to celebrate the launch of a new gymnastics proficiency centre.

The centre is one of three in the county being opened by Somerset Leisure with help from a grant from Sport England.

The fun day runs from 11am to 2pm and will encourage local families to have a go at a range of physical activities free of charge.

Staff have devised a programme of events to appeal to all ages, with activities ranging from Nordic walking, cheerleading, orienteering, street dance and karate, as well as the opportunity to take a fitness test.

Taster sessions will also be available in pilates and aerobics, there will be a challenge on the climbing wall and a 'dads and lads' football match.

Jayne Lethaby, manager of the centre, said: "We really want to appeal to those families which don't think that fitness is for them.

"Being fit and active does not have to be boring so we have a programme of events that will appeal to all members of the family whatever their age.

"Getting more active together as a family is so much more fun."

The gymnastics centre will be open on the Saturday between 11am and midday and boasts a host of new equipment including junior spring boards, high bars and landing mats.

Children signing-up for courses will follow a specially structured programme which is recognised by British Gymnastics.

More than £11,000 has been spent on the three centres, which includes facilities in Glastonbury and Crewkerne, following an £8,500 grant from Sport England, topped-up with £3,000 from Somerset Leisure.

Stephen Hughes, the head of sport and programming at Somerset Leisure, said the centres would be a valuable asset in the promotion of gymnastics to children.