THE tranquil surroundings of Cliffe Castle Museum will soon host a new series of Tai Chi for Health classes.

The sessions, led by instructor Helen Parsons assisted by Val Preston of Keighley-based social enterprise Huntun Tai Chi, begin on May 20.

Helen said: "Many of our participants have seen Tai Chi either on TV or when they've visited places such as Hong Kong.

"Originally created as a martial art, Tai Chi today is most often practised for health as a series of slow, continuous movements. A credible amount of evidence shows there are a range of health benefits from regular practice of these low impact exercises."

Val said: "The great thing about Tai Chi is that age and ability is no barrier. More importantly, Tai Chi is a daily activity that I enjoy doing and I'd like other people to feel the benefits I have."

Helen is an occupational therapist and has practised both Tai Chi and Qigong exercises for at least 10 years.

Val started learning Tai Chi for Health in 2017 and aims to become a certified instructor this year. She has worked with people with a range of health conditions, including as a volunteer complementary therapist for a local cancer charity.

The new classes outside Cliffe Castle will start on Monday May 20 from 1.30pm to 2.30pm. The first two classes will cost £2.50, then continue at £5.50 on a pay-as-you-go basis.