Community pharmacist and Honorary Consul of India for Wales, Raj Aggarwal OBE, has arranged the UK's biggest ever yoga class to mark this year's International Yoga Day.

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones will open the event at 10am on Sunday 19 June in the National Indoor Athletics Centre at Cardiff Metropolitan University’s Cyncoed Campus. Up to 1,000 people are expected to attend the free mass yoga event, which will cater for people of all abilities.

In preparation for the big day Mr Aggarwal, who has been practising yoga for many years, recently took a small class with the current Miss Wales Ffiona Moyle, Miss Swansea Sophie Bell, and Miss Newport Georgia Phasey, at his Central Pharmacy in Cardiff.

First Minister Carwyn Jones said: “I am pleased to take part in this global event to celebrate the 5000 year-old practice of yoga, which originated in North India. Wales has a strong relationship with India and I have been fortunate to visit the vast and beautiful country many times in recent years as we continue to develop our valued business ties.

“Yoga is not only a great way for people to keep fit and healthy, it also helps focus the mind and allows people to relax and unwind from the stresses and strains of modern life.”

In December 2014, the United Nations declared 21 June International Yoga Day and it was observed globally for the first time last year.