Active Luton has been awarded almost £35,000 from Macmillan Cancer Support to continue its successful exercise programme for residents who are undergoing treatment for cancer.

The programme, which is run in partnership with Macmillan and the Luton and Dunstable Hospital (L&D), is aimed at improving the physical and mental wellbeing of cancer patients.

With support from Macmillan nurses and L&D cancer experts, Active Luton's healthy lifestyles team works closely with the participants to deliver specific exercise programmes which cater to each individual's needs.

Patients on the programme receive 12 free physical activity sessions which include gym, swim and fitness classes in any Active Luton facility. The golf driving range and badminton court have also been used in specific circumstances.

At the end of the 12 sessions participants then receive a discounted rate at Active Luton's facilities and a free health check every six weeks to monitor their progress.

The programme supported 115 people in 2012 and the latest funding will see it extended until the end of 2014.

Patients can be referred via their Macmillan Clinical Nurse Specialist or GP, but it is also possible for people to refer themselves by contacting Active Luton directly.

Peter Loney is one patient who has found the programme 'invaluable' to his recovery. Peter commented: "I am so grateful to my Macmillan nurse who badgered me to take part in the Active Luton programme. Words can't express how positive and full of energy I feel after a session at the gym and a chat with my support team."

Helen Barnett, Active Luton Chief Executive, said: "The feedback so far has been overwhelmingly positive and is making such a difference to people's lives. Exercise is vitally important to the health and wellbeing of patients so we are delighted to receive this latest funding.

"Going through cancer must be a very terrifying experience but we know exercise, can help with the recovery, so I encourage anyone receiving t treatment to get in touch to see how we can support them."

Gemma Crane, Macmillan Development Manager, Mount Vernon, said: "We know that it's really important for people affected by cancer to be physically active and that it can make all the difference to people's health and wellbeing. Macmillan Cancer Support is pleased to be funding Active Luton for the next two years, having seen excellent results from the first year's pilot. I recommend that anyone affected by cancer and interested in finding out more about exercise options get in touch with Active Luton."