AGE UK Somerset, with funding from South Somerset District Council, will be starting up a yoga, stretch and flex class in Martock.

Sessions cost £3.50 and run on Wednesdays from 11.30am to 12.30pm, starting on September 24.

Research by Arthritis Research UK found that yoga can provide more effective treatment for chronic low back pain than the usual care provided by GPs – something yoga teachers have known for years.

A participant from a previous session said: “The stretch, breathe and relax sessions help keep my hip joints and my lower back flexible in a safe and gentle way.

“It helps my balance and it is an hour of peace and tranquillity, time just for me.’ One of the session leaders added: “This session stretches and tones your body, helping to make you stronger and more flexible while improving your breathing. This will help you to relax and sleep better’.

“It’s not strenuous, it’s about breathing and relaxing and stretching, you’ve got to make a commitment to yourself.”

No previous experience necessary – for more information call Di Ramsay on 0845-6434702 or email dianne.ramsay@ageuk somerset.