1610 is launching a new community outreach programme in West Somerset following the ending of its leisure services contract to manage West Somerset Sports and Leisure Centre in Minehead at the end of March.

The new scheme, called Get Set Fit, has the backing of some of the members of the Minehead leisure centre concerned about the loss of fitness classes and the long-term provision of leisure services for the local community.

1610 is now working in partnership with the West Somerset Academy Trust, Minehead Barbarians Rugby Club and Manda Clarke’s School of Dance in Minehead to provide venues for around 20 exercise classes when its 10- year leisure contract at West Somerset Sports and Leisure centre ends on March 27.

The gymnastics programme has now been transferred to a new base at Minehead First School and the Trampolining programme is also moving to the Minehead Eye.

Get Set Fit organiser Suzanne Richards said: "Our staff have built a rapport with class members who have lobbied us to keep their classes going. Under our monthly membership scheme, participants would be able to access all the classes at different venues or under a pay as you go scheme for £6 per class.

"We are aiming to provide a versatile and affordable community fitness programme in West Somerset so local people don’t have to travel further afield.”

Fred Hagan, 67, from Minehead, said: "Keeping fit has always been a big part of my life and I do a variety of classes on a regular basis including spinning, circuits and body conditioning. I am all for what 1610 is trying to do."

1610 member Angela Joiner from Stogumber also backs the changes: “Three cheers that 1610 will continue their presence in Minehead with the wonderful support of their dedicated and inspirational instructors.

"Without fail, Suzanne and her team always go the extra mile in providing such varied classes for a wide demographic covering all levels of fitness, ages and abilities.”

Under the Get Set Fit scheme indoor cycling classes will be based at Minehead Rugby club and other classes such as Pilates, Yoga, Zumba, Body Conditioning and Kettlercise will operate at local schools and the Manda Clarke School of Dance. 1610 is aiming to work closely with the West Somerset Academy Trust to further develop the Get Set Fit programme.

Details of the Get Set Fit scheme are available on the 1610 app see 1610.org.uk for details, the monthly membership scheme is £27 per month or £6 pay as you go. Further details of classes will be posted at contact centres.

Or email organiser Suzanne Richards srichards@1610.org.uk or 03300 581610.