The first Aberdeenshire Football Fans in Training (FFIT) programme came to a close after a fantastic 12 weeks. The initiative in partnership with Inverurie Loco Works FC, Garioch Sports Centre, AFCCT and funded by NHS Grampian helps supporters feel better and live a healthier lifestyle by losing weight. FFIT is a health and wellbeing programme, where like-mind individuals attending the programme learn about healthy eating, portion control and increasing physical activity with a view to losing weight and becoming fitter.

The partnership has allowed Inverurie Loco Works to become the first Highland League team to deliver the programme and the weekly sessions are based out at the Locos home ground – Harlaw Park. Over the 12 weeks the group lost a magnificent 78kg due to their dedication and hard-work.

On the final week of the sessions former Dons player Steve Tosh visited the group for a Q&A and Steve was on hand to present certificates to each participant who completed the programme. Another former Don and present Locos Players/Manager Darren Mackie also paid a visit to the group earlier on in the programme. In addition, six FFIT Garioch participants took part in a 10 second penalty shoot-out during half-time at the Aberdeen vs Morton Betfred Semi-Final and the FFIT group were also guests at the Aberdeen vs Celtic SPFL league fixture in October.

Stephen Boddie, AFCCT Community Coach (Inverurie) said: ‘The FFIT group have been fantastic to work with over the 12 weeks, there enthusiasm to try and change their own lifestyle plus help each other has made this group extra special. Not only did they all make a great achievement in terms of weight loss but socially they have become a tight knit group. It is also fantastic to see the Locos and Garioch Sports Centre try to engage with more members of the Garioch community. Also, the valuable funding contribution from NHS Grampian is absolutely vital and without their support we would be unable to run the programme. ‘

Garioch FFIT Participant said: ‘As far as the course went I found the takeaway section and the traffic light cards given out particularly helpful, the instructors were all excellent getting the mix of having a laugh and passing on knowledge just right. I'd be happy to come in on a future course to pass on what I gained from the course and what I lost! It has set me on a good path for continuing with the weight loss.’