RETIRING to sheltered housing for a quiet life goes out of the window in Atherton . . . with the oldest swingers in town.

Ambergate on Lee Street hits just the right "muscle" tone for its residents who limber up to keep fit sessions every Tuesday morning.

Hand weights are used, physical exercises undertaken and even Thai Chi practised by the enthusiastic pensioners, the oldest of who is 83-years-old.

Pat Bridge is resident manager, and she has organised the keep fit sessions with qualified instructor, Jean Bell.

Jean said: "I have been coming here for 18 months. At first most of the women did gentle exercises sitting in chairs.

"I am 70-years-old myself and so am aware of the problems which can arise from exercising.

"As the months have passed though the women have discarded the chairs.

"We start with a warm up, then movement to music, training with weights and even working out with tea towels.

"We finish with Thai Chi and relaxation.

"It keeps people supple and mobile. I am very keen on posture in particular. I also try to give the women simple exercises they can do when I am not here.

"There is a good turn out each week and we try and make it a social occasion too.

"In fact, the muscles most overworked are around the mouth. We are always laughing and I have to point out to them that they have about 400 others around the rest of their body which need exercising."

Pat added: "People come to sheltered accommodation expecting to find pensioners sat around a room in a large square. But it is not like that. We have the more usual activities such as bingo here, but there is more to life.

"Residents are so enthusiastic. I have even known them to alter hospital appointments so as not to miss a class.

"It gives greater co ordination and movement, as well as promoting a more positive outlook on life."

Honoria (Nora) Conway, 83, is the oldest participant. She said: "I have been coming to the sessions for more than 12 months. It is great.

"I had a fall and find that the sessions benefit me, particularly loosening my joints and strengthening my legs."