The Okehampton Community Recreation Association (OCRA) will provide new social events this year to improve fitness, mental health and support networks for Okehampton residents.

OCRA have teamed up with Parklands Leisure Centre, Baby Sensory and Devon FA to introduce badminton, baby sensory and walking football sessions to its timetable.

OCRA general manager Ian Blythe, said: ’I think just coming out of covid restrictions people wanted to do something together and we noticed that. We noticed that there was a big influx in the number of people wanting to do something social.’

The new badminton group has been set up in collaboration with Fusion Lifestyle, which runs the Parklands Leisure Centre, as part of the Sports and Community Development remit which aims to get communities and schools involved in a range of activities.

New parents, who may have felt isolated during lockdown, can bring their baby to a new baby sensory class where parents and children can socialise.

Mr Blythe said: ’Young mums and dads may have felt lost and unsure so we have joined up with Midwest Devon Baby Sensory for sessions. Parents can bring in their small people and aid their development but for them to socialise with others.

’The adults get a lot out of it just because they can talk with other young parents.’

Devon FA also has provided OCRA with bibs and balls for its new walking football club which is open to anyone over the age of 18.

For those who are unable to play traditional football, Mr Blythe said that the slower pace of walking football was ideal.

’It allows them to play the game they love,’ he added.

In the past, OCRA has had an integral role in many community activities including establishing a youth group on Friday evening to help tackle a spate of anti-social behaviour across the town.

The community group has also recently set up a Sporting Memories session for people suffering from dementia and mental health problems where they can socialise and share memories of their sporting experiences.

OCRA is a charity that provides the residents of Okehampton and wider area the chance to get involved in sporting activities and also supports a wide range of clubs in the area.

For more information visit www.ocrasport.org.uk.