Solihull Hospital has been playing host to a group of former patients who have been combating heart disease by getting active.

The group, known as Solihull Coronary Rehabilitation Group, whose oldest member is 85, meets twice a week in the physiotherapy gym for workouts.

As well as keeping fit, they have also helped raise thousands of pounds for the hospital physiotherapy department.

Group vice chairman, Mike Naylor, said: “We have all received top quality care at Solihull Hospital with our various heart problems.

“Following on from our initial treatment, this group is an excellent way of staying healthy, supporting each other and sharing advice.

“Each member pays £1 a session and once we raise a certain amount of money we buy equipment for the gym which is used by our group and the current patients. We’ve bought everything, from rowing machines and bikes to treadmills and steppers.”

Sarah Bazin, from the physiotherapy department, said the group had been instrumental in the makeover of the gym.

“They are a great example to others in staying fit and healthy, adding life to their years rather than years to their life following heart problems.

“I hope others can follow their lead in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, no matter what age.”