InsideJapan News Network

Groups of cheerleaders have been taking to the streets of Japan to help cheer up the nation in the wake of the recession, it has been reported.

According to news agency Reuters, the cheerleaders have been given the task of uplifting the country which is still struggling with life post-recession. The source noted that various squads from all over the country are taking part in the pep rallies, including one squad whose average age is 66.

Speaking to the source, leader and founder of the Japan Pom Pom club Fumie Takino - who is 78 - said: "I started cheerleading when I was 63 and I think I can dance much better and have made some improvements. Anybody can improve even if you are old."

Japan has recently emerged from its deepest recession since the end of the second world war and has been hit by a string of high profile problems in its car industry.

Written by Kimberley Homer.