Like it or not, summer is officially over, and although the rumours are that we're set for a mini heatwave later this week, the festive season will be upon us faster than you can say 'Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer'.

More than a little annoyingly, as well as being the month of excess (another segment of Terry's Chocolate Orange? Don't mind if I do!) December is also the time of copious family get-togethers, work parties and long lost friends calling out of the blue to arrange the inevitable present-swapping ceremony amongst the kids.

So, if, like me, you're dreading the idea of trying to pour yourself into that cocktail dress from the back of the wardrobe after one too many mince pies, why not make a little extra effort to be 'good' for the next couple of months? (Meaning, of course, that you can be really naughty over Christmas because your outfits have that extra give!)

There are plenty of ways that Haverhill locals can get fitter and slimmer for the holidays:

Slimming World

With two sessions available – one at 5:30pm and another at 7:30pm, there is no excuse not to try your local Haverhill Slimming World Group for support, motivation and professional nutritional and diet advice.

Slimming World takes place every Wednesday at The New Croft on Chalkstone Way, Haverhill. Call 01440 706 143 for more information.

Haverhill Cycling Club

Enjoy a range of road, leisure, fitness and social rides, ranging from 10 to 50 miles. Not only is it a great way to lose weight and get some impressive calf muscles, but you will also have the opportunity to meet other local, like-minded people along the way.

There are no membership charges - simply email the Haverhill Cycling Club for more information.

'Jog On' to Kidney Cancer

Why not lose a few pounds and raise a little money for a worthy cause along the way? 'Jog On' to Kidney Cancer is a half marathon that is being held at Withersfield White Horse Pub near Haverhill from 9am on Sunday October 1st 2011. Entry costs £15 and includes a free T-shirt.

For more information and to register, visit the James Whale Fund website.

LDN Wrestling

OK, so we're not suggesting for a second that you should actually take part in a bout of professional wrestling! However, there is no better motivation for getting into that tracksuit and pounding the pavement/hitting the gym/firing up the wii (delete as applicable) than an evening of rip roaring athletic action.

The colourful characters of LDN Wrestling return to the ring at 7:30pm on October 24th at Haverhill Arts Centre.

Hypnotherapy

Are you struggling to stay motivated? Do you need a professional to help you achieve your goals?

Indigo Hypnotherapy and Counselling offers experienced hypnotherapy to help break those bad habits and put you on the road to healthy living.