IF you are looking for a fun way to get fit and shed those extra pounds head on down to your local pool for a game of water polo.

Less boring than swimming lengths and cleaner than a game of hockey, water polo is the perfect pastime.

Gary Edwards of the City of Newport Water Polo Club said the sport is ideal exercise for men, women and children of all ages.

"It's fun, a great way to get fit and meet new people too," he said. Back in the 1980s the sport's popularity in Newport was such that the team took the British title in 1983, 84 and 85.

After a few years of decline the club has recently re-formed and has been training at Maindee Pool for the last 18 months.

Gary said: "Since the new Welsh National Swimming Pool in Swansea was opened water polo in Wales has really begun to take off again.

"We have already played a few friendly games against other Welsh teams and a Welsh league is being set up in March."

Complete novices are always welcome to the club's twice-weekly sessions.

Gary said: "We have a real mixture of people at our training meetings, from complete beginners and children as young as 14 to experienced adults. All you need is enthusiasm."

The City of Newport team train on Wednesday from 8.30pm to 9.30pm and Saturday from 4.30pm to 5.30pm at Maindee Swimming Pool. For more information contact Gary Edwards on 01633 671820. Lisa Stevens