A SERIES of obstacles and challenges dubbed the 'Trim Trail' has been opened on Milnthorpe playing fields as part of an initiative to get the community taking part in fitness activities.

The Trim Trail was opened as part of a May Day fair in the village, which encompassed sporting activities and displays for everybody to get involved in.

The event, jointly organised by Milnthorpe Play Area Development (MiPAD) and Kent Estuary Youth (KEY), saw local sports teams get involved in tennis, croquet, bowls and football led activities.

Kathy Watts-Jones, who served as chair of MiPAD, said: "The day drew the whole community together in a fabulous way.

"The idea behind the Trim Trail was to concentrate on health and fitness of young adults and adults.

"So we had all the sports teams running events, and we also had things to excite the kids, like the fire brigade and a bouncy castle.

"All in all it was an extremely good event that was well attended."

Milnthorpe GP Stuart Allen was the first to use the Trim Train, in competition with local fitness trainer Sam Hornton.

Dr Allen, who came third on BBC Special Forces Ultimate Hell Week, then gave a speech. Milnthorpe Steel Band were present throughout the day and there was also an opportunity for people to try their hand at Maypole dancing.

Emma Banks, of KEY, said: "We are a youth-led charity whose aim is to get the whole community together and experiencing new things.

"This day brought everybody together for what proved to be a fun event.

"We are a new charity and we wanted to show people a little bit about us, and it was really successful."

MiPAD and KEY will be continuing to encourage activity in the area, and will follow this event up with a second phase.

Ms Watts-Jones said: "The second stage will be all about getting younger children involved.

"I am really in favour of kids being able to go and play and take risks, have fun and be free. I want them to really enjoy themselves, have fun and keep fit.

"It's absolutely important to get kids involved in this."