A LEISURE centre user has encouraged others to take up an exercise scheme, describing it as the best thing to happen to him 'in a long time'.

Martin McCallion, 56, is a previous participant of the National Exercise Referral Scheme (NERS) and regular participant of wellbeing fitness classes with Aura Wales.

He started on the National Exercise Referral Scheme in January last year and said he now feels healthier than ever.

Mr McCallion, who lives in Saltney and has since completed the Flintshire 10K, said: "I do one class a week – the wellbeing circuit class – but in February I had a gym induction and since then I have attended the gym at least twice a week.

"There’s a really friendly atmosphere, I’m very comfortable here in Deeside Leisure Centre.

"I was referred to the scheme because I had arthritis and was really struggling. "When I had the gym induction with Jo Beevers, she showed me the pieces of equipment to use that would be most helpful.

"I’ve been going from strength to strength since then; I’m feeling as healthy as I ever have."

Asked what his favourite thing about attending the scheme had been, he said: "The main thing is my physical wellbeing now compared to what it was.

"It’s so different. Nothing’s a challenge anymore, not like the way it used to be.

"I’ve met some lovely people as well. At the moment I’m really enjoying running.

"Completing the Flintshire 10K has boosted my confidence tremendously. I’ll take on any challenge that comes my way now."

Mr McCallion said he would encourage anyone to take part in the wellbeing classes, stating: "It changes your life for the better.

"As far as I am concerned it is the best thing that has happened for me in a long, long time. You’ll never look back."

He now intends to run the Chester half marathon in May 2019.

Joanne Beevers, the co-ordinator of NERS, congratulated Mr McCallion for his achievements.

She added: “He is loving running and he even beat me in the Flintshire 10K with his time of 57 minutes.

"He has been consistently training since January with a mixture of my classes and gym sessions.

"He is one of our many clients who turn up every week to achieve their goals."

To find out more visit: https://aura.wales/