Take a healthy interest in walking

12.00.00am GMT Thu 22nd Mar 2007

Hundreds of residents are taking a healthy interest in the area's parks and open spaces as part of the borough's regular health walks programme.

Walks are held in the borough all-year-round, organised by Richmond Council's Health Development Team. And the programme of walks for the period spanning April to July has just been announced with a number of new walks added. Trained volunteer leaders who guide the walks ensure that everyone is able to walk at a pace comfortable to them. The walks are free and the majority last for an hour and longer walks are specified on the programme.

Richmond Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Housing, Cllr Denise Carr, said:

"Walking is one of the best forms of exercise and we want to encourage those people who currently aren't taking much, or indeed any, exercise to join in. It doesn't matter how slowly you walk, the leaders will ensure the pace is right for you."