Men in Ayrshire affected by prostate cancer have the chance to take part in a 12-week exercise programme at Kilmarnock's Rugby Park.

Prostate Football Fans in Training is free of charge and has been designed by Prostate Scotland and the SPFL Trust to support men with prostate cancer through their treatment.

Supported by cancer exercise specialists and coaches from Kilmarnock FC, participants will improve their fitness, gain nutritional insights for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and benefit from being part of a shared endeavour with other men on a similar journey.
  
Adam Gaines, director of Prostate Scotland, said: “Research and clinical guidelines show the importance of exercise for men with prostate cancer.

"The 12-week programme aims to support and alleviate the impact prostate cancer can have on the lives of men, especially for those on hormone therapy.
 
“There are too few specialist exercise courses for men with prostate cancer in Scotland, and our aim is to close that gap.  

"That’s why we’re delighted to be continuing with this programme following a successful pilot where the feedback and progress made by the participants was very positive.”
 
Dave Wilmot, from Kilmarnock, took part in the programme last year.

The 72-year-old said: "Prostate FFIT really helped me.

"At the end of the 12 weeks, I was physically and mentally in a much healthier place. Having prostate cancer and receiving treatment for it can be scary.  

"Our group quickly developed a sense of community where we felt safe to share our stories, and the best part was that we were in it together and we weren’t alone.

"I can't thank the coaches and Prostate Scotland enough. The delivery of the course was magnificent, it was informative, lots of fun and physically tough going sometimes, but very worthwhile.

"Now, I'm fitter, I’m making healthier choices and I have new friends. I would encourage anyone with a diagnosis to sign up and get involved."

The programme starts on Thursday, January 18 and runs from 10.30am until 12.30pm at Rugby Park.

To register, visit spfltrust.org.uk/prostateffit/