Image
Walking is a simple, free way of being more active and is ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels. The council’s physical activity team is organising lots of activities for National Walking Month including the chance for people to win shopping vouchers.
A packed calendar of walking opportunities will be on offer from walking sports to ‘sketch and stroll’ sessions for keen or budding artists, plus a number of walks organised by local walking groups will also be taking place. Information about the different activities will be available at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/walking and at North Somerset libraries.
Cafés across North Somerset are supporting National Walking Month by providing maps of local walking routes with some even offering discounts for walkers. An extensive list of walking routes of up to six miles is also available on the website, including routes which are suitable for people who use wheelchairs or who have limited mobility.
People are also being encouraged to share their inspirational walking stories and photographs as Cllr Mike Bell, North Somerset Council’s Deputy leader and Executive Member for Public Health, explains:
“Walking is a fantastic, easy way to improve your physical and mental health. As well as the health benefits, walking can be a great way to explore your local area, finding out what’s on your doorstep – whether that’s local nature and environment or shops and businesses. I’m really pleased that local cafés are once again supporting National Walking Month here in North Somerset.
“We’re asking people to share their walking stories and pictures on our social media using #NSWalkThisMay. Everyone who does will be in with a chance of winning shopping vouchers and will be helping encourage other people to become more active.
“We hope National Walking Month will inspire people who are interested in walking with other people in their local communities. Walking’s a great way to connect with other people and with the natural world. It’s also a great activity for all the family to get involved with.
“There are lots of walking groups in North Somerset and they always welcome new members. Plus, we’d love to hear from anyone who’s interested in starting a new walking group.”
For more information go to www.n-somerset.gov.uk/walking, follow Go4Life North Somerset on Facebook and North Somerset Health Trainers on Twitter.