A PROJECT providing activities and classes for over-50s in Blackbird Leys is encouraging more people to join by setting up an outreach programme.

The Clockhouse CDI project offers things such as Tai Chi classes, yoga classes and crafts sessions for older people in the Leys.

Until the end of July, special welcome sessions and transport for those with mobility difficulties are being put on to make the project more accessible.

Organiser Sally Meachim said: “At the moment we are trying to reach people who are not coming to things on the Leys. If people in the area can’t attend because of mobility issues, we will put transport on for them.

“Also an outreach officer will go to pick them up, as it can often be hard attending these things on your own at first.”

Those involved with the project vote for the sorts of classes they want to do.

The Headington woman said a lot of the chosen activities were exercise-based.

“The yoga and Tai Chi stuff works on flexibility and balance; it’s important for over-50s as there is such a strong link between keeping active and maintaining good health.

“We also have a dance at least once a month.”

She added: “We put on what our local over-50s community wants us to do.”

The project also works closely with other social groups and clubs to spread the word even further.

Welcome sessions and transportation has been extended to gardening clubs, art groups and social groups linked with the project.

Joyce Connor, from Blackbird Leys, has joined a weekly group since the outreach programme got underway.

The 87-year-old attends Monday social group sessions once a week and travels by taxi with a project worker.

She said: “They are really nice people up there and it’s a great chance to get out and meet others.

“The place has a great sense of wellbeing; some places you can walk in and feel like a fish out of water but everyone is so helpful.

“I think people are silly not to take advantage of it. So many wonderful people go out of their way so I can have one day of enjoyment.”

Jean Dyer, 76, from Greater Leys, has been making use of the project’s activities since she moved to the area nine years ago.

She said: “It’s really great. I get to meet with all my friends, have a chat and a cup of tea.

“We play a lot of games as well and I’ve been to a lot of what Sally’s put on over the years.”

* For more information or help accessing the project call Sally Meachim on 01865 395908