SHOPPERS and pensioners aiming to beat the ageing process were given food for thought at a health fair in Dorchester.

People queued up for blood pressure checks and lifestyle advice at the Age Concern-organised event in the United Church Hall in South Street.

Wendy Hilton, chief officer of the Dorchester Age Concern branch, said the aim was to offer advice and information to people of all ages - not just the elderly.

She said: "It was all about getting people to look at their health earlier rather than later.

"In this way problems can be diagnosed earlier, and it also means people aren't storing up problems for themselves in later life."

The fair came after scientific tests showed that exercise can increase the stamina of older people and increase their capacity to live independently by up to 20 years.

Experts at the fair were on hand with tips about diet, stress, giving up smoking and exercise as well as information about the GP referral scheme, adult education classes and games groups. For information call (01305) 269444.