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A rehabilitation programme in Middlesbrough is claiming progress in treating stroke patients using intensive therapy methods.

The programme aims to improve balance, movement and hand-eye co-ordination by gym use and boxing classes.

The 10-week course is delivered by Middlesbrough Council's sports development team at Clairville Stadium.

The course uses "neurological re-wiring" to get healthy brain areas to take over other responsibilities.

Commenting on the eight people on the course, a spokesperson said "one has now joined the gym, one completed the Sport Relief Mile in aid of the Stroke Association and another had used a wheelchair but was now walking, working out in the gym and swimming regularly".

She added: "The increase in general confidence is also significant and very important for people progressing with their lives after having a stroke."