026/10 - 9   April  2010

Walk Wealden to a fitter future

In the run up to 2012, Wealden District Council and Freedom Leisure are inviting every village and town in the district to organise a community walk to promote fitness and health.

"We want the community walks to be an event for everyone to take part in, whatever their age and ability," said Councillor Ron Cussons, Cabinet member for Community at Wealden District Council.

"It is all about doing a bit of exercise, having some fun, and getting out and enjoying our Wealden Countryside.

"There are plenty of opportunities for longer group walks with organisations like the Ramblers Association but there is a gap  when it comes to short healthy walks to encourage people of all ages to take up the exercise habit.

"I'm hoping the prospect of the 2012 Olympics, when this country becomes the focus for the best athletes and sports people from all over the world, will inspire all of us to get off the sofa and hurry-up our heartbeats," he said.

"We are delighted to be sponsors of the Walk Wealden Project.  Encouraging people to stay fit and active is a key aim of Freedom Leisure," said Jeff Hart, Managing Director, Freedom Leisure.  "Walking is a gentle, low-impact exercise and the health benefits are many. The Walk Wealden events are for all to enjoy."

Wealden District Council is calling on parish councils and other community groups to organise short walks of less than three miles.  They could be combined with a community festival or fun day. Organisations will be encouraged to identify groups such as mothers with pushchairs,  people with disabilities or people recovering from injuries.  A recent survey conducted by Wealden District Council found that many residents would like to do more recreational walking...but would welcome a bit of encouragement.

Walks can also be themed to involve routes taking in a location of historic or  natural interest.  People taking part will be given a Walk Wealden certificate and a free sticker.  A Golden Boot will be passed from community to community as they complete the challenge.

The inaugural Walk Wealden will take place at Frant at 10 am on Saturday April 24, meeting at Frant village hall. As well as a two mile walk, the inaugural event will include an ActivePlay session run by Freedom Leisure, a Farmer's Market held in the village hall and a children's poster competition.

"We are hoping for splendid weather so as many local people as possible will join in," said Councillor Cussons.

Over 20 people from across the District have already taken part in accredited Health Walk Leader  training  which provides practical advice for people interested in becoming a volunteer Health Walk Leader.  Wealden District Council can provide details of further training opportunities.

For more information about the Walk Wealden scheme and for details of future walks, please go to the Wealden web site, www.wealden.gov.uk, or look our for the posters in your area.  Walk Wealden is part of the national Walking for Health initiative.  Further information about Walking for Health can be found on Natural England's web site www.wfh.naturalengland.org.uk.

Walk Wealden is supported by the Wealden Local Strategic Partnership and the Sussex County Sports Partnership.

Walk Wealden is also supported by the Department of Health's Change4Life's campaign. A free Change4Life personalised activity pack can be downloaded from the Change4Life website, www.nhs.uk/change4life.

Note to Editors:

You are invited to send a photographer to the launch of Walk Wealden at Frant village green on April 24 at 10am.

For further information: