A CLOSE-KNIT Zumba class is making moves for mental health in a massive show of support for one of their members.

The community-spirited Zumba Gold group have stepped up to raise much needed funds for a cause close to their hearts.

Keep-fit fan Rita McShane lost her son Brian, a former footballer, last year and has been helped enormously by her friends at the class.

In his memory they raised money for the mental health charity Scottish Association for Mental Health, which had offered support to Brian over the years.

Rita, 73, of Dresling Road in Greenock, said: "I have been coming to the classes for a long time and go to every one that I can.

"I lost my son Brian and it has really helped coming here.

"He was supported by SAMH and it was lovely to help raise money for them.

"I would like to thank everyone for their support."

Brian, who was 50, died suddenly after falling ill last June, but he had also suffered from mental health problems.

His mum is one of a number of ladies who join Zumba Gold leaders Angela Slaven and Ursula McAuslan at weekly classes.

They organise fundraisers to raise money for good causes and this time round they chose to support SAMH, which has a local branch, raising £300 for the cause.

The Zumba Gold group aims to give people of all ages and all abilities the opportunity to try the fun keep fit classes every Thursday in Jackson Dance Academy, Regent Street, from 1pm.

Instructor Angela Slaven said: "We were delighted to support SAMH for Rita, who comes to all our classes.

"We have girls from all over the place who come and join us throughout the week and we like to support one another with fundraisers.

"During Strictly on TV we had a sweepstake running and raised money.

"We all wanted to do it for Rita."

SAMH fundraiser Cindy Cosgrove said: "We are delighted with the fundraising efforts of the Zumba class and want to thank them.

"It is great to see so much support for the work we do."