A new rehabilitation exercise programme is set to launch for cancer patients in and around Weymouth.

'C'Fit' is a new set of regular exercise classes for anyone with a cancer diagnosis, either undergoing treatment or in recovery.

The sessions will be run by C'Siders Weymouth and Portland Cancer Group and Osprey Leisure Centre at the centre.

The classes have been funded by grants, which will allow for a year's programme to be run, with £2300 provided from Weymouth & Portland Borough Council, £1000 from About Face, a head and neck cancer charity based in Poole, and £3500 from Macmillan.

The programme has taken inspiration from a similar programme in Bridport, 'The Stepping Out' program, which is run at the leisure centre with the support of cancer support group The Living Tree, and has been running for four years.

Cancer patients will be referred to the exercise programme by their health team or GP.

An assessment will then be carried out with trainer Dawn, the hired Level 4 cancer Rehab Exercise Instructor, so that she knows what support to provide.

This will be based on the patients stage of treatment or recovery and any other problems they may have.

There are then 12 free sessions before either moving onto other classes or continuing with C'Fit at the usual Osprey price per session.

Peter Meacham of C'Siders said: "The worst part about cancer or any disease is where people shut down, both socially and physically, which is more of a killer.

"They shut down socially and don't feel they have the energy to meet people.

"This program provides the an opportunity and implements steps to overcome these resistances."

The 12-week free programme of weekly hourly sessions is due to take place at the Osprey Leisure Centre from Wednesday, May 2.

For more information about the sessions or to get a GP referral form, contact Dawn Haigh on 01305 824378.

C'Siders is also looking for a team of volunteers who can help out on a rota basis at sessions by taking a register of attendees and supporting participants.

For more information, visit csiders.org or call 07729 617748.