ZUMBA is the latest dance exercise craze to sweep the nation.

Now pensioners can enjoy the energetic routines from the comfort of their own armchairs.

Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing (KNH) and Anne Little, zumba teacher and senior lecturer in sports and health exercise at Huddersfield University, have launched a project called “Armchair Zumba Gold”.

This is a gentler version of the frenetic Latin-based dance activity and has been developed for people with limited mobility or in wheelchairs.

Armchair zumba is being piloted at Walker Street retirement living grange, Thornhill Lees, Dewsbury, and is proving to be a big hit with residents.

Phyllis Oates, one of 10 residents who took part in the first session, said, “I really enjoyed it. There was a great party atmosphere and everyone was really energised afterwards.”

Kirklees Cabinet member Clr Molly Walton said: “It’s a simple idea but one that could make a real difference to our older residents.”

Further information on KNH’s older people’s service, is available on 01484 416444.