New local health walks in Shrewsbury

Two new Walking for Health schemes have just been launched in Shrewsbury. 

The walks, organised by Shropshire Council’s Walking for Health officers, start from Battlefield Heritage Site from 1.30pm on the second and fourth Monday of each month, and from the café at Haughmond Hill from 10.30am on the first and third Friday of each month. 

The next walks will be on Friday 7 October 2011 at Haughmond and Monday 10 October 2011 at Battlefield. 

Walks are free of charge and are suitable for all ages, fitness levels and abilities.  Both sites have easy access trails which are free from barriers (such as stiles) and are suitable for push and wheelchairs.  People can choose between a short (30-45 minute) walk and longer (60-90 minute) walk if you feel a bit more energetic.

Refreshments are available after the walks in local cafes.

Councillor Steve Charmley, Cabinet member for health and well-being, said:

“Walking for Health groups have become very popular and are now well-established activities led by and for the local community.  I would really encourage people of all ages to come along and join in.” 

The Walking for Health scheme, run by Shropshire Council, had recently received national accreditation from Natural England’s Walking for Health initiative, the largest national body promoting and setting the standards for led health walks. 

Liz Evans, Shropshire Council’s walking for health co-ordinator, said:

“Walking in a group is a great way to start walking and to stay motivated.  You’ll make new friends and discover great places to walk in your neighbourhood, as well as improving your health and fitness.  All walks are risk-assessed and lead by trained volunteer walk leaders.  Walks are free and all you will need is a comfortable pair of shoes. 

“No need to book – just turn up.  So come along and join us for a beautiful woodland walk or relish in the ancient history of Shrewsbury.” 

A full list of local walks in Shropshire can be found at www.wfh.naturalengland.org.uk

For more information about health walks in Shropshire please contact Liz Evans, walking for health co-Ordinator on 01743 255059 or email april.evans@shropshire.gov.uk 

Dates of upcoming walks are:

Battlefield from 1.30pm
Monday 10 October
Monday 24 October
Monday 14 November
Monday 28 November
Monday 12 December

Haughmond Hill from 10.30am
Friday 7 October
Friday 21 October
Friday 4 November
Friday 18 November
Friday 2 December
Friday 16 December