'Inspirational' late veteran's popular exercise classes continue in his honour

Elderly veterans are keeping the memories of an "inspirational" British Army veteran alive by continuing to take part in the fitness class he set up. 

Staff at a military care home are continuing the 'Star Moves with Ken' session in honour of Ken Harris, who died shortly before Christmas, aged 88. 

Royal Air Force veteran Michael, 85, is grateful Mr Harris' classes are carrying on, saying: "Ken's classes were a gift from heaven. 

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"He was brilliant – he had this deep, melodic voice and was slightly larger than life. I still miss him an awful lot."

Second World War veteran Phyllis, 101, said: "I think Ken would be very pleased if he knew we were still doing his classes. He was an inspiration. I'm glad they have continued in tribute to him." 

Former soldier Mr Harris served in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps from 1952 to 1954 for his National Service. 

In his civilian career, Mr Harris was a fitness instructor so was keen to set up his exercise class soon after moving to Royal Star & Garter in September 2021. 

With the help of the care home's in-house physiotherapist, Mr Harris drew on his experience as a YMCA weights instructor, teaching low-impact exercises to the over-60s.

He also designed seated exercises aimed at improving mobility and boosting the mental and physical wellbeing of the residents. 

Royal Star & Garter provides care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia.  

The charity was founded in 1916 to care for the severely injured young men returning from the battlegrounds of the First World War. 

Wellbeing co-ordinator Suzie Elliott often assisted with Ken's classes and, before his death, promised the veteran they would continue running. 

Suzie said: "When I last saw him, I made a promise to Ken that we would continue running Star Moves with Ken. 

She added: "We miss him a lot but this means his legacy will live on – I think he'd be happy to know that." 

Resident Michael, who regularly uses the care home's physiotherapy room, said: "They're continuing it and it's in Ken's name, so we still have the privilege of doing these exercises."