Bingo Caller Leads Fitness Class in Bolton

Bolton bingo players try out new fitness regime.

A scheme to make bingo a more energetic pastime is underway in the north-west, with players in Bolton enjoying a brief workout as part of their weekly game.

Last week, numbers game enthusiasts at the town's Mecca Bingo venue followed the lead of membership manager Will Clarke to perform a series of exercises, all without leaving the comfort of their seats.

Dave Barker, general manager at the bingo hall, told the Bolton News: "We've always known playing bingo keeps minds active and now we can help to keep our players' bodies active too."

Meanwhile, Mr Clarke said that initial responses to the session had been positive, with plans now in place to make bingo exercise a regular event.

Betty Fallows, a 75-year-old local resident, voiced her support for the scheme, which could catch on at other bingo halls if it continues to be a success.

"I'm active anyway but some people aren't and it doesn't do any harm to do more [exercise]," she told the newspaper.

Next year, a section of Manchester's Royal Exchange Theatre will be temporarily converted into a bingo hall as part of new drama Everybody Loves a Winner.