PEOPLE of all ages were encouraged to get more active at an open weekend of activities in the final countdown to the London Olympics.

With just a year to go to the start of the 2012 Games, Kirklees Council has embraced the spirit of the event to raise awareness of the range of sporting activities already on offer in the area.

Under The Final Countdown theme, Kirklees Active Leisure Centres offered free taster sessions at the weekend in archery, basketball, zumba and even the chance to be put through your paces at bootcamp.

The open weekend culminated in an activity show on Saturday as crowds were spurred on to their feet to watch and participate in a high-octane show.

Breakdancing Sputknicker Sisters provided a high energy boost to the event before a Zumba party got under way.

A stage assembled in the Huddersfield Piazza to showcase the event gave willing volunteers a chance to have a go at limbering up before a crowd of cheering onlookers.

Ian Halligan, 41, and his nine-year-old daughter Meghan had a go at badminton in the Piazza.

Ian said: “We were just shopping in town and we saw the event going on and came and had a go.

“I think it is a fantastic way of engaging with people and showing people the kind of activities we have on offer here in Kirklees.”

For those with more restricted mobility a demonstration from Active Movers gave useful tips to keep aches and pains at bay.

Senior sport and physical development officer Michelle Bland said: “We just got on stage and told people how important it is to exercise, even in small bursts for example when the adverts are on the TV.

“We also publicised our Practise, Exercise and Leisure Scheme (PALS) and our aqua classes, walking classes and specialist services for those who are recovering from ill health.”

Information was also offered for parents of overweight children in the form of the START scheme.

Activities on offer on the day included crazy catch, a reaction wall and a mission activity circuit.

Clr Jean Calvert, cabinet member for health, wellbeing and communities said: “Throughout open weekend, many Kirklees Active Leisure Centres have offered a chance to try activities free of charge.

“The event at Huddersfield Piazza has been designed to inspire local people to commit to regular sport.

“We will be passing on the commitments pledges people have made here in Kirklees to the London Olympic Organisers to show how we have embraced this opportunity.”