MARNA opens outdoor gym in Mayfield

MARNA opened a fantastic new amenity for Mayfield this week – an outdoor gym at the Mayfield Recreational Association (MRA).

MARNA Outdoor Gym in Mayfield — MARNA Outdoor Gym at the Mayfield Recreational Association

Mr Philip Barritt, who was chair of the MRA from its inception in 1987 until 2020, cut the ribbon on Saturday and declared the gym open.

Mr Philip Barritt cuts the ribbon to open the gym

The small ceremony was attended by people who had helped with the project. Alz Coates, chair of MARNA, opened by thanking the main donors including the Mayfield Parish Council and the Trent & Dove Federation of Residents who contributed £3000 and £2000 to the project respectively. Mr John Parker, vice chair of the Parish Council, after thanking MARNA, added

“MARNA came to the Mayfield Parish Council with the project and all the council thought it good and worthwhile – MARNA are doing a lot of good work. I hope people come and use and look after the gym. Mayfield Parish Council want to support projects like this – money is available to help make Mayfield a vibrant village.“

Mayfield Parish Council, MRA and MARNA at the gym opening

The gym includes cardo exercise for all abilities, including older residents. There is strength-building equipment as well as a rower, bicycle and walker: seven items in all. Instructions for use are attached to each station.

MARNA outdoor gym equipment — Rev Martin Soar, Kevin Coates – vice chair of MARNA and Roger Wallis – chair of MRA try out the gym equipment

MARNA fundraised for the gym for over a year with great support from local people. As well as the Parish Council and Trent & Dove, they obtained grants and donations from the Rank Foundation, the Mayfield Memorial Hall and the MRA itself. Fundraising events generated more cash, including pop-up restaurants, barbeques, a “funathon” (thank you Sharon Amy) and bingo. They also made a thousand pounds selling plants and other items in their on-line shop and on eBay.

MARNA with Christine Bettson representing Trent & Dove

The outdoor gym is set in beautiful surroundings next to the river Dove, with great views, just a short walk away from most of Mayfield. Exercising in such a lovely location will not just improve people’s physical health but their mental health as well. Our gym will let people be active and have fun with others in Mayfield. Just adding an extra 10 minutes of moderate activity a day has been shown help people feel happier and healthier¹.