Residents in Roehampton that commit to leading healthier lives will be offered free gym or swimming memberships.

The incentive has been organised by Wandsworth Council's public health department and will see eligible local people receiving either a gym membership at Roehampton Sport and Fitness Centre or swimming membership at Putney Leisure Centre.

It is part of a new health living scheme called the Roehampton Challenge, through which residents can access a variety of health support services, community schemes or activity sessions.

To receive one of the memberships, residents must complete one of the qualifying requirements, such as successfully stopping smoking through the borough's Stop Smoking service or attending at least 11 out of 12 Adult Weight Management sessions.

Alternatively, a free membership will be offered to anyone completing a Change Champion course, which is run by public health and offers anyone taking part the chance to learn more about health and well-being and possibly even gain a recognised health qualification.

Council leader, Councillor Ravi Govindia, said: "We want to help people lead healthier lives – whether this be through improving access to health services, establishing healthy living schemes or simply by creating more opportunities to get active.

"The free gym and swimming offer is just one of many elements in the Roehampton Challenge, and we hope it will inspire local people who may be looking to make a positive change in their life."

For more information about the Roehampton Challenge – and other services on offer in the area – visit the Team Roehampton website at wandsworth.gov.uk/teamroehampton