Leisure centres across Swindon will be marking World Mental Health Day on October 10 by opening their doors and running a series of free activities.

The initiative, which is being run by GLL in partnership with Swindon Borough Council, aims to raise awareness of the benefits of exercise on mental health.

Participating leisure centres include: Swindon Oasis, the Swindon Link, the Health Hydro and the Haydon Centre and Gym.

Free entry will be available all day, with visitors able to drop in for a swim or gym session or get involved with free fitness classes and gym challenges.

Caitlin Thomas, GLL’s corporate health manager, said: “We know that being more active on a regular basis is good for our physical health, but being active can help improve how we feel about the world too.

"Through moving more we can improve our sleep, have more energy feel calmer and think more clearly.

"By taking part in sporting activities we also meet new people, make new friends so improving our social networks too.”

Charlie Paradise, public mental health co-ordinator at Swindon Borough Council, added: “Getting active can be great for your mental wellbeing and it is great to see GLL in Swindon embrace this and offer a great opportunity to local people."

"GLL has also signed up as a key partner to help us reduce the stigma around mental health, everybody has mental health and it is important that we all look after it.

"I would encourage anyone to take up GLL on this great local offer.”

According to mental health charity MIND, regular physical activity is associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety across all age groups.

While exercise is essential for slowing age-related cognitive decline and promoting well-being.

Either pre-book in advance at better.org.uk/linkcentregym or drop in on the day.