Pensioners Link, which is based in Charles Street, Leigh, is to open a second centre at Wigan's Queens Hall Methodist Mission in Market Street.
Activities co-ordinator Hazel Lord says that Food for Thought is a healthy lifestyle group centred around five main subjects which aim to help pensioners make the very most of their retirement by keeping them well and active.

The course comprises:

• HEALTH sections including food and health-related problems such as asthma, heart disease, breast cancer, cooking for one and healthy food choices.


• EXERCISE samplers include Thai Chi, dance, chair-based exercises and fun games. There will also be mind stimulating sessions including segments about boosting self-esteem and self-confidence.


• PAMPERING lessons aim to make older people "feel good on the outside as well as feeling good on the inside".


• This will include trips to Wigan and Leigh College's beauty campus for treatments and holistic therapies such as reiki and aromatherapy.


• SOCIAL sessions aim to bring plenty of fun, smiles and social contact for all who attend.

All parts of the curriculum will be delivered by qualified professionals from across the borough, said Mrs Lord.
She said: "Recently we set up a healthy living group here at the centre which is very popular. Therefore we have decided to open up a second one in Wigan and now I need some help in advertising it within the borough.

"This format has been developed at our Leigh class and has proved highly successful.
"I think this class is so popular because it covers a very interesting and important subject in such a relaxed and enjoyable format.
"As I am sure people are aware, there are always a lot of warnings regarding health and food in the media and what you can and can't do or should or shouldn't do.

"No wonder people, myself included, can become very confused. So, hopefully, this group will help people understand all the information that is now available to them."

The group will meet every Wednesday from 1pm to 2.30pm with the first one starting on February 6. Phone 261753 for further details