THEIR motto is “use it or lose it”.

And the ladies of the Leys yoga classes who know how to move it can do so for another year.

A £2,808 award from Oxford City Council means that Leys Community Development Initiative’s (CDI) Clockhouse Project for over 50s can continue its popular yoga, tai chi and dance sessions.

The classes have grown in popularity since their formation five years ago but without funding could not continue.

And whether it is the ancient Indian exercise of yoga, Chinese martial art, or the more recent practice of line dancing, the classes have proved a big hit.

Blackbird Leys resident Carol Gibbons, 68 said: “It’s so easy at our age to go from the bed to the sofa and stick the TV on, but this gets you out of the house.

“We have a lovely mix of people, and even if someone is not sure, they can come and start on their own and they’ll find that soon they are one of the group.”

Yoga and tai chi both run every week for an hour at the Clockhouse, except in school holidays.

There are also monthly line dances, and other dance tasters which can continue due to the grant.

Over-50s yoga tutor Emilia Cole said: “Yoga increases circulation and flexibility. It helps you to rejuvenate and promotes a sense of well-being and self-worth. If you feel depressed or anxious, yoga can be very helpful too.

“Because it’s a community yoga group, members find a lot of support through meeting others.”

Leys CDI worker Sally Meachim said: “Beginners are always welcome and people can start at any time – the activities are ‘drop-in’ so you don’t need to book.”

The yoga sessions are £2 and include a hot drink and biscuits. They are run solely on the grant and the entry fees.

Following the school holiday break the next session will be held on Tuesday, April 16.

  •  For more information and a Leys CDI Clockhouse Project programme call 01865 395908.