Walking back to happiness (and health)

Step into summer by taking part in two new walks around Birtle and Ainsworth as part of the Bury Health Walks Summer Programme.

Both begin Tuesday 19 June and are free of charge and open to everyone keen to get some exercise and enjoy the countryside.

The Ainsworth District Community Health Walk will be held every Tuesday, beginning at 1pm and lasting up to 90 minutes. Walkers should meet at the Duke William pub, and the circular walk takes in the countryside around Ainsworth, woodland and farmland. The route is mostly level going, but some walks may involve crossing stiles, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

At Birtle, the 60-minute walks will take place on the first and third Tuesday of the month, beginning at 10.30am from Bury Hospice. The route takes in Castle Hill Road and up towards the Church Inn, heading to the Pavilion residential community and restaurant on Elbut Lane, then around the lodge where birds, swans and ducks may be nesting. The walk around the lodge can be muddy so appropriate footwear is recommended.

* Three volunteers who have inspired hundreds of local people to take up walking have won a national award.

Eileen Robinson, Ann Bowes and Brian Marshall are volunteers with the Bury - Walk with Me Walking for Health Scheme.

They have now won the 2018 Ramblers National Volunteer Awards in the Inspiring Walkers category and were presented with their award at a special Ramblers event held at Bangor University in April.

This award recognises inspirational volunteers, or group of volunteers, who have helped other people to put one foot in front of the other. Whether they are taking their first steps or are a seasoned walker, this award recognises those who encouraged, supported and inspired them to get out and get active.

Over the past three years, the Bury Walk with Me team has led more than 400 health walks, equating to over 600 volunteer hours. More than 4,500 attendances have been recorded so far - an outstanding level of participation.

ENDS

Press release issued: 6 June 2018.

Picture: The award-winning volunteers Eileen Robinson, Ann Bowes and Brian Marshall.