An occupational therapist who trained as a Pilates teacher after it relieved her back pain has brought its benefits to her beloved Sidmouth.

Rachel Russell dealt with adults with spinal injuries in her old job but after 12 years decided to make the change.

She also takes her classes into care homes and is keen to expand her offering.

“It’s sorted my back out entirely,” said Rachel, who suffered back pain during her two pregnancies. “For me it was more effective than yoga. I’ve been doing it ever since. I’ve never looked back.

“I’ve met people with all sorts of different back problems. I would say you need to come to classes for at least six weeks to see a difference.

“I host drop-in sessions so people don’t need to book in advance or worry about fines if they don’t show up, and I keep prices low.”

Rachel lives in Bristol and stays with friends before her classes, then heads back to the city. She makes the journey because of a love of Sidmouth that started in childhood and believes it is a ‘fantastic’ place, adding: “The range of clients keeps me on my toes. I’m doing it because I totally believe it’s effective.”

Her classes are held on Wednesdays in the Unitarian church from 10am to 11am and at Sidmouth College from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.