STAFF at a Wirral hospital have shown that laughter really is the best medicine after they turned out in force for a knockout day of fun, silly games and physical exercise.

More than 1,000 people attended Fitter for Health Day at Arrowe Park Hospital – the fourth such event in the NHS Foundation Trust’s pioneering Fitter for Health campaign, which aims to support and encourage staff and their families to take part in regular sport and physical activity.

Fitter for Health Day centred around a laughter filled It’s a Knockout event at the hospital with fancy dress, foam filled tubes and a lot of water, played by 150 members of staff in 18 teams.

In the morning session, “All Happy People” representing the advanced healthcare practitioners directorate triumphed, and the afternoon competition as won by “The Wheeze Warriors”, on behalf of Ward 38.

Children of staff members enjoyed a giant inflatable obstacle course, bungee trampolines and a climbing wall.

Thanking the organisers and all those who took part in the day’s events, David Allison, chief executive of Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said he was delighted that the campaign has encouraged hundreds of staff members to improve their health and fitness.

The campaign, which is not funded from NHS resources, was awarded the coveted Gold Ribbon accreditation by the NHS Sport and Physical Activity Challenge.

Mr Allison said: : "It was wonderful to see so many members of staff and their families having such a great time at our fourth Fitter for Health Day.

“This was a fun and laughter filled event with a serious message about the physical and mental benefits of regular physical activity for all ages.

“I hope it encourages more of our staff to get more active in the coming year and set a good example for our patients and local communities."