PEOPLE are being encouraged to get fit and take up a vegan lifestyle next month.

The Brighton Vegan Runners are urging residents in the city to embrace Veganuary and take part in a free training session.

Veganuary is a national drive aiming to raise awareness of the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle.

Throughout January, anyone trying a vegan diet, or transitioning to one, is invited to join the Brighton arm of the fastest-growing athletics club in the country.

From complete beginners to the more experienced, all are welcome.

Training sessions are structured so that different ability groups can train at the same time.

Experienced club runners will help newbies work up to a 5k parkrun or motivate keen runners towards a new challenge. There is no charge and no need to formally join the club.

Co-ordinator Dave Arnold said: "We would love to support anyone in Brighton and Hove who wants to get fit this Veganuary.

"Many of our members first tried animal-free living as part of the Veganuary campaign, a positive move that benefits your health and the planet while reducing animal suffering.”

Sessions are held on Monday evenings at Hove Park and Wednesday evenings at The Level, with other locations planned.

In addition, club runners participate every weekend across the city’s four free park runs and meet as a group on the second Saturday of the month, at Hove Park.

Anyone interested can email brighton@veganrunners.org.uk or get in contact via their Facebook page.