RESIDENTS are being encouraged to ditch the gym and join a free outdoor fitness and activity regime.

The North West Kent Green Gym is a new scheme with a difference.

Starting in January, residents can take part in open air countryside conservation work.

The weekly three-hour sessions will include tasks such as hedge laying, coppicing, footpath work, hay raking and much more.

For more information on the scheme or for an application form, call 01322 294727, email nwkentcp@kent.gov.uk or write to North West Kent Countryside Partnership, Mead Crescent, Mead Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2SH.