Circus workshop for over-50s combats loneliness

One participant said the classes 'brought me out of my shell'

A circus workshop for people aged over 50 is helping keep people active and combating loneliness, participants say.

The Knowle West Health Park in Bristol offers the class together with Circomedia.

Participants learn circus tricks over the course of eight weeks, and they said it has helped them stay active.

"I was very apprehensive when I came here and this has brought me out of my shell," John, who is 80, said.

Elly Cribbens said it was nice working with adults rather than children

Emma Smallwood, at the Knowle West Health Park, who hosts the sessions, said the class primarily focuses on well-being.

"What we do in these circus classes particularly ticks a lot of well-being boxes," Ms Smallwood added.

"They're active and without realising, they feel like they've had quite a workout.

"It's good for combating isolation."

It is the first time Bristol's circus school Circomedia has worked with over-50s.

Instructor Elly Clibbens' normally works with four-year-olds.

"It's nice working with adults who have a bit more patience and can really focus and get the tricks," Ms Clibbens said.

The classes will be put on again in January.