A NEW six-week programme which aims to encourage more people to get active has been launched in a Basingstoke suburb.

Beat the Street, which is funded by Hampshire County Council and delivered by Intelligent Health with support from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, was launched last Wednesday in Popley.

The free six-week real-life walking and cycling game, which will end on November 11, allows people taking part to collect points for the number of miles they travel in a bid to win prizes.

Individuals, families, schools, workplaces and community groups in the Popley area can take part.

Special sensors – called ‘Beat Boxes’ – have been placed on lampposts across Popley and those taking part in the challenge can tap their card at the start and end of their journey to collect points which go towards their total.

Players can monitor their process at www.popley.beatthestreet.me.

The borough council’s Cabinet member for communities, service delivery and improvement, Councillor Robert Tate, said: “We are really pleased to be supporting this community based initiative and encourage residents to get involved and see how many miles they clock up.”

Dr William Bird, founder of Intelligent Health, added: “Physical activity has a positive effect on 23 long term health conditions including COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), diabetes and breast and colon cancer.

“More than that getting out and about in the fresh air is good for mental health, reduces congestion and will allow you to enjoy your towns.”

Any community groups and residents interested in taking part in Beat the Street can email btsbasingstoke@gmail.com for more information.