Elmbridge has come out as the fourth most physically active borough in England, according to a Sport England survey.

Despite the recession and cutbacks in personal spending, an estimated 21 percent of people are still doing three 30 minute sports sessions.

However the figure is a drop from two years ago when 25 percent of people took part.

The Active People Survey used figures collated by councils between October 2009 and October 2010 based on about 500 residents from each borough.

Councillor Jan Fuller, portfolio holder for leisure and cultural services, said: "What a great start to 2011 for Elmbridge to make the top five of the most physically active local authorities in England.

"It will encourage the residents who have made the resolution to lead a healthier lifestyle in the New Year to make full use of the fantastic facilities and open spaces available in the borough."

Elmbridge is home to numerous sports clubs, parks and gyms with the new Xcel centre in Walton giving a boost to participation when it was opened in 2006.