A former regional daily picture editor has invested her life savings in a new yoga-related investment.

Leah McLaren, who worked for the Derby Telegraph and the Oxford Mail before going on to a career with the nationals, is launching ‘Hotpod Yoga’ in Derby.

The inflatable purple pod is portable and allows people to practice yoga without the hassle of booking at a studio.

It is heated to 37 degrees and is fitted with relaxing lights, while it takes 20 minutes to inflate.

How one of the ‘hotpods’ looks once inflated

Trained yoga teacher Leah told the Derby Telegraph: “I’ve invested my life-savings into this venture. It’s the first time Derby will see one of these hot pods and I can’t wait to show it off.

“Once it’s inflated, you step inside and cocoon yourself in the bubble that is the yoga studio. It’s truly ingenious.”

Leah worked for the Telegraph between 2004 and 2013, before spending two years as group picture editor at the Mail.

She later served as news picture editor at The Times and head of images at Trinity Mirror’s short-lived daily The New Day, and now freelances at various titles including The Guardian and London’s Evening Standard.

Leah added: “It’s a first for Derby and I’m so glad that I’m bringing it here. I come from Derby even though I’ve been living in London for a while, so it’s great news.

“I really love the fact that I’m setting up something so unique and inviting local people to take part, have a go and sign up.”