A 'Wellbeing over 40' event was held in Saffron Walden on Tuesday to mark World Menopause Day.

The event was hosted by Saffron Walden Town Council, which has recently adopted a policy on the menopause and guiding principles for employees and managers.

The theme for World Menopause Day this year was 'cognition and mood', and the evening aimed to raise awareness and promote a positive message to lift the taboo around the menopause.

Guest speaker Professor Joyce Harper, who is head of reproductive science at the Institute for Women's Health, University College London, presented information and discussion on nutrition, exercise, sleep and mental wellbeing, with a talk focusing on demystifying the menopause.

Town clerk Lisa Courtney shared information on 'menopause in the workplace', giving her own experiences and imparting good practice on how other local businesses can support their employees and adopt similar employee policies.

A selection of local wellbeing practitioners also offered additional information and guidance.

These included Donna Richardson of Positively Menopausal, a women's wellness and menopause coach, physiotherapist and Pilates expert Fiona O'Leary, Alexander Technique practitioner Kathy Ponter, wellbeing and relaxation therapist Nikki Sammons, Siobhan Kemp of Saffron Yoga, and representatives from 1 Life Lord Butler Fitness and Leisure Centre and representatives from Saffron Walden Library.