Playground for pensioners in Hyde Park

Play areas for older people are popular in China and parts of Europe but this is the first of its kind in London.

Located in the park's Pavilion Tennis and Bowls Centre, the playground six pieces of equipment wiill offer users a balance of exercises to work the arms, legs and upper body.

There will be a cross-trainer, body-flexer, free runner, sit-up bench, flex wheel and a bike to improve core strength, balance and flexibility.

While the under-60s will not be banned from joining in the fun, the playground will be clearly signposted "Hyde Park Senior Playground".

The idea was first proposed by the Knightsbridge Association, a residents' association.

Madeline Elsdon, from the association said : "In the United Kingdom there are now more pensioners than children but few facilities for them in our parks.

"We proposed the playground because many older people find indoor gyms intimidating and expensive and therefore aren't exercising enough.

"As well as the physical and mental benefits we hope that the playground will encourage users to socialise and have fun together.

"People need to stay active, maintain independence and are never too old to play."

The scheme will be funded under Westminster Council's ward budget scheme, which grants each ward in the borough £100,000 to spend on local projects and priorities.

The Royal Parks has managed the project and consulted with a number of local and special interest groups.

Work on the Westminster playground begins next month and the site is due to open in spring.