A new, free open-air gym is now ready for use at a Walthamstow park.

The council-funded equipment in Llloyd Park off Forest Road includes cross trainers, exercise bikes and shoulder press equipment.

A fitness instructor will also be provided by the council to be on-site on Mondays and Wednesday from 10am until noon and from 5pm until 6pm to help newcomers get to grips with the machines.

The gym was formally opened on May 22 by Cllr Ahsan Khan, the council's cabinet member for health and wellbeing, who was joined by William Morris and Chapel End ward councillors in putting the new kit through its paces.

Cllr Khan said: “While there are tonnes of opportunities to stay active across Waltham Forest I think this is a great way for local people to get fit for free or to give gym equipment a go without having to commit to a monthly membership.

“It gives local people yet another reason to visit one of the borough’s best-loved parks as well as allowing fitness fanatics the chance to factor something a little bit different into their existing fitness regimes.”

He added that the fitness instructor would be able to help residents familiarise themselves with workout techniques and give them friendly tips on how to use the outdoor gym safely and sensibly.