Watford Football Club has launched two community fitness schemes, to help local people stay healthy despite any barriers that they are facing.

The club's Community Sports & Education Trust will be delivering sessions in Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, South Oxhey, Watford, Three Rivers and Welwyn.

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The trust's first programme, Shape Up, is a 12-week weight management course.

The course has been designed for adults between the ages 18 and 65, with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 30 or over, or 28 or over if the participant is from an ethnic background.

A weekly 90-minute session will take place, comprising of a 45-minute educational segment and a 45-minute physical activity session.

A former participant in the programme, 46-year-old Rob, said: "I can’t recommend this course highly enough, do it!

Watford Observer: The trust raised £10,000 during a trek for late manager and chairman Graham Taylor in October.The trust raised £10,000 during a trek for late manager and chairman Graham Taylor in October. (Image: Watford FC CSE Trust)

"Take 90 minutes out of your weekly routine, change your life; take small steps but you will reap the benefits. I have!”

The scheme has been backed by local GPs, meaning that individuals can sign up through their local surgery or via the trust itself.

Upcoming courses will be available in Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, South Oxhey, Watford, and Welwyn.

More information can be found on the Shape Up Herts website (www.shapeupherts.com).

The trust's second programme, Active Watford and Three Rivers, will focus on inactive individuals from the local area.

The course will be aimed at those who are at risk from cardiovascular disease or suffer from mild to moderate mental health issues.

Watford Observer: Trust volunteer Barry Freedman was named Watford FC community captain in November.Trust volunteer Barry Freedman was named Watford FC community captain in November. (Image: Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust)

The programme will provide face-to-face consultations for up to a year.

According to the trust, "Individuals will look at why they would like to become active, and what barriers they might face, establish their goals and confidence levels as well as create action plans."

The consultations will investigate what sports the client may enjoy, and recommend local clubs or facilities to them.

Participants aged 16 or over can self-refer themselves to the Active Watford and Three Rivers scheme, by completing the referral form or contacting Alison Goodchild on 07710 096398 or alison.goodchild@watfordfc.com.

Further information about the programmes that Watford FC's Community Sports & Education Trust run can be found on the organisation's website (www.watfordfccsetrust.com).