Shepton Mallet Leisure Centre and Castle Cary's Caryford Fitness and Leisure Centre is launching a unique fitness initiative for youngsters with British Gymnastics in Somerset.

This is the first time that British Gymnastics has teamed up with Somerset Leisure to roll out a fitness programme designed especially for children in the pre-school age group. It is aimed at improving their physical awareness, co-ordination, confidence and social skills.

Programme organisers hope pre-schoolers will catch the gymnastics bug early.

The FUNdamentals classes will include basic but fun gymnastic elements to help develop balance and coordination as well as social independence.

The programme underpins the Early Years Foundation Stage, developing children's confidence in the world around them.

It is aimed at children aged between 18 months and four years old.

They will learn through a variety of fun themes which will help them develop social skills and interact with other children.

Head of Sport for Somerset Leisure Steve Hughes said: "The FUNdamentals programme will provide an excellent foundation for children to go on and enjoy all sports and activities later in life.

"Parents will accompany younger children at the classes so it is something for all the family to enjoy."

The classes will start this month at a number of leisure centres managed by Somerset Leisure, including Shepton Mallet and Caryford Fitness & Leisure Centre.

And the plan is to deliver the FUNdamentals programme throughout Somerset in 2010.

For more information about the FUNdamentals gym programme, please contact Steve Hughes on 01823 410219 or to book contact your local Leisure Centres.