A health and fitness event at Inspire: Luton Sports Village last week could generate up to £3,000 for the Luton Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) centre.

Residents turned up in their hundreds to raise funds by taking part in a sponsored triathlon using exercise bikes, rowing machines and walking. There were also fitness classes, tombola games and short mat bowls throughout the day.

The event included a silent auction where people bid for a number of donated items including afternoon tea for two at Park Lane Hotel. There was also a book stall and refreshments on sale with all proceeds going towards the exercise bike.

Local sports trust Active Luton organised the event which aimed to raise £1,300 for Luton's COPD Treatment Centre's respiratory service to purchase a much needed recumbent bike.

COPD customers regularly use the Inspire gym as part of their rehabilitation programme run by the Trust and the group members helped organise the fundraiser.

The exercise classes help sufferers to manage their condition and more people have signed up to the programmes following the event.

The pre-event target was exceeded with more than £1,600 being raised on the day, and with sponsorship money still coming in, COPD group members anticipate the total funds could reach £3,000.

COPD is the name for a collection of lung diseases including chronic bronchitis, emphysema and chronic obstructive airways disease that mainly affect adults in later life. The condition is life limiting as people have breathing difficulties often combined with a persistent cough and chest infection.

Helen Redwood, COPD Co-ordinator at Active Luton, said: "We are absolutely delighted with the way the day went, and by bringing together all the COPD groups, there was a real sense of team spirit before, during and after the event.

"It was a superb effort by everyone who took part, and with many achieving or exceeding their personal goals, this has really given them a sense of self-worth and confidence. I would like to thank everyone who supported the fundraiser in so many ways."

Helen Barnett, Chief Executive at Active Luton, said: "Congratulations to everyone for a fantastic event, especially Helen who put in an incredible amount of work above and beyond her normal working hours to make it such a success. A new bike will really help improve the lives of the patients who currently use our centres as part of their rehabilitation.

"The day also helped raise awareness of Active Luton's health programmes and it is fantastic that more people have signed up as result. We've also seen an increased uptake in our exercise classes, bowls and other activities following the event."