PENSIONERS have been bowled over by a computer games console – and every older person across the district will get the chance to try it out.

Cherwell District Council has organised 36 Nintendo Wii sessions in its towns and villages.

Back in January, the council bought the kit to give older people the chance to try sports such as tennis, bowling, baseball, golf and boxing – and it has proved so popular that the council plans to offer the service indefinitely.

Players have a wireless controller in their hand, giving the impression of playing the real game, while a mobile projector provides the action on a 6ft by 6ft screen.

The most recent organisation to borrow the console was the Cluster Care Group in Cropredy, a day centre for elderly and frail people.

Carer Moya Reed, who has already booked the Wii again for August, said the service was fantastic because the average pensioner would not be able to afford to buy a Wii, which costs £250.

She said: “You should have seen my little old darlings enjoying it. The youngest was 75 and the oldest in their 90s.

“They were playing the ten-pin bowling. First of all they were a little bit hesitant but by the end they were getting strikes – and not just the odd one. They thought it was great.

“Next time they would like a go at the boxing game.”

Gerald Pearce, 77, said: “It was the first time I have used a games console. It was wonderful. I’d like to have another go when it comes again.”

Pensioners at the Sunshine Centre, Banbury, have also borrowed the console.

Evelyn Viggers, 75, said: “I had never touched a games console before, but that was the idea of it. It was really exciting. I wanted to take it home with me.”

Vickie Zielinski, community development manager at the district council, said other councils in the county had asked Cherwell for advice on running similar schemes.

She said: “Keeping older people fit and healthy is one of our big priorities.

“By 2021, it is predicted that half of Cherwell’s population will be aged 65 or over, so this work can only become more important. Our team is trying to be as inventive as possible to make sure we reach the maximum number of people.”

Any group, day centre or residential home can book a free session. If required, a member of staff from the council will come along to set up and demonstrate the equipment.

Organisations wishing to book the Nintendo Wii, should call 01295 221803.