The McCarthy Stone Foundation has handed over a £500 grant to Parkinson’s Swindon and District Branch.

The charity offers information, friendship, and support to people with the disease, their families, and carers. This includes social events, regular group meetings.

The grant will help free group exercise classes by paying for the hire of a room at the leisure centre as well as specialist instructors trained in teaching those living with Parkinson’s.

Secretary Anna Newman said: “Our group exercise classes are particularly important for our members as studies show that regular exercise helps to slow down the progress of Parkinson’s.

“The kind grant from the McCarthy Stone Foundation will allow us to run more classes, such as seated exercise, balance and exercise and dance, helping our members to stay active, both physically and mentally. We can’t thank the team enough.”

The McCarthy Stone Foundation is the independent, registered charity of the developer and manager of retirement communities, McCarthy Stone, which has a new development in Swindon, Gilbert Place on Lowry Way.

Foundation manager Graeme Marsh said: “Parkinson’s UK Swindon and District Branch is an important pillar of the local community. Its support for those living with Parkinson’s as well as their families, friends and carers is absolutely vital. We’re delighted to aid the brilliant efforts of the organisation and help fund their important exercise classes.”