RESIDENTS are being urged to take a step towards healthier living by taking part in a new walk in Beggarwood.

Those wanting to take part are invited to join in and get out and about in the borough for the free 60 to 90 minute stroll starting and finishing at Beggarwood Community Centre.

The new monthly walk, setting out on Wednesday, 3 April at 10.30am, is one of a series which take place all around the borough and are supported by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council through the Walking for Health initiative, a partnership between the Ramblers Association and Macmillan Cancer Care which works towards encouraging physical activity for everyone.

All walks have a trained leader and a back marker, so no matter what your pace is, you can comfortably join in with no fear of being left behind.

Cabinet member for communities and community safety at the borough council, Cllr Simon Bound said: “This new walk offers another great opportunity to make the most of the benefits of getting out and about in the fresh air. Walking is a wonderful way to meet new people, improve your fitness and boost your mental wellbeing.

“If you haven’t thought of trying the programme previously, why not take advantage of this new walk and meet members of the local community via a healthy lunch afterwards? The full timetable of walks offers times and dates to suit everyone so why not take a look and see what could work for you?”

The organisers of the scheme would like to hear from anyone who would be interested in becoming a volunteer walk leader.

For more information about the health walks visit basingstoke.gov.uk/healthwalks.