SHROPSHIRE Rural Communities Charity invites people aged 65 to 95 for a Functional Fitness MOT in Craven Arms.

Many people begin to feel less steady on their feet as they get older.

This may be normal but not inevitable.

Maintaining strength and balance in later life is vitally important for good health and quality of life in later years.

Anyone who is becoming nervous of falling would benefit from attending one of the Functional Fitness MOT events.

In the MOT, seven basic tasks are measured against the age-group "normal" for each activity. This gives an overview of the participant's strength, balance, flexibility, stamina and their functional risk of falling.

As well as the one-to-one fitness test, there will be a short film on how to reduce the risk of falls and a chance to make a personal Emergency Plan.

Attending specific exercise classes is a good way to maintain strength and balance.

As well as existing Tai Chi classes, new "Elevate" classes will soon start in Craven Arms. There will be an optional "Elevate" taster class at the Fitness MOT event. These classes are designed to develop strength and balance for older people but any exercise is likely to be of benefit anyone who is not very active.

The Functional Fitness MOT event will be held on Tuesday, April 30 in Craven Arms Methodist Church, Corvedale Road, Craven Arms.

Attending the event is free of charge but a donation would be greatly appreciated. Appointments will take about two hours and must be booked in advance.

To book an appointment, please call Jayne on 01743 360641.