A new outdoor gym on an estate has opened to residents and members of the public.

The opening of the £15,000 project in Arnett Square, on the Chingford Hall estate, was attended by more than 20 residents and Valley ward councillor Jemma Hemsted.

Resident Linda Magill, of Arnett Square, first pitched the idea to councillors of bidding for community forum funding following the success of other outdoor gyms in the borough.

Ms Magill, a 43-year-old mother-of-two, said the facility, which includes a cross-trainer, spinning bike, pull-up bar, and leg press, has already generated positive feedback.

She said: "Gyms are so expensive, so this outdoor gym is a perfect way to keep fit locally and it's free.

"It is a great opportunity for young and old and less able-bodied persons to make use of something on their doorstep and is already being used a by people of all ages."

The Leyton Orient Community Sports Programme manager plans to arrange a weekly fitness day at the outdoor gym for residents living on the estate.

Councillor Jemma Hemsted said she is delighted the estate now has its own gym space.

She added: "It is a great addition and the lick of paint given to the children’s play equipment gives it a much brighter, fresher feel. 

"We are hopeful that this will be a very positive and popular addition to the local area having already drawn attention from local residents who as professional fitness trainers give up their time to train local teenagers for free.

"They currently have to travel to Leytonstone but will now be able to do this on their own doorsteps."