​You’ll never walk alone – vote for our volunteers!

Three volunteers who have inspired hundreds of local people to take up walking have been nominated for 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 been shortlisted for the 2018 National Volunteer Awards in the Inspiring Walkers category.

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.

Maria Cranston, of Bury Sport and Physical Activity Service and the Bury Walk with Me Walking for Health scheme, said: “Not only have they been long-standing and dedicated volunteer walk leaders, but each has played a significant supporting role in helping to mentor and guide new volunteers through their walk leader training, enabling Bury – Walk with Me to grow and expand the walking offer to other communities within the borough.

“It’s undoubtedly down to the commitment and dedication of Eileen, Ann and Brian that we have been able to establish, grow and develop our Bury scheme to provide more health walks to the people and communities of Bury.”

To vote for the Bury – Walk with Me team, go to http://www.ramblers.org.uk/volunteer-zone/rewarding-our-volunteers/inspiring-walkers.aspx

ENDS

Press release issued: 15 December 2017.

Picture: Eileen Robinson leads a Summerseat Health Walk.