PEOPLE in the Tavistock area are being encouraged to get out on their feet and discover the wonders of walking during the Ramblers' biggest ever free short walks festival, from May 3 to 11. During Get Walking Week, Tavistock Ramblers will be offering people in the area free walks that are not too long, in the hope it will encourage them to take up walking as a pastime leading to a happier and healthier lifestyle. On Saturday, May 3, there is a shortish walk around Haytor and the following Saturday, an easy walk along the Exeter Canal. Sunday, May 11 sees the group at Widecombe for a seven and a half-mile walk. On the evening of Thursday, May 8 there is a four and a half-mile walk around Yelverton and Clearbrook. More details of these walks and others that are organised by Tavistock Ramblers are on the website http://www.tavistockramblers.org.uk">www.tavistockramblers.org.uk Other Ramblers groups will also be participating in Get Walking Week. Tavistock Ramblers believe that although walking is very straightforward, the benefits are endless. The organisation believes it is good for your health, lifts your mood, it's a sociable activity to do with friends and family and a great way to meet new people. They said it also counts towards the recommended 150 minutes of physical activity people should be doing each week. Chairman of Tavistock Ramblers Ian Gasper said: 'We've seen first-hand what a positive impact regular walking can have on people's lives and would like even more people to benefit. 'We want as many people as possible to step out during Get Walking Week so that they can experience everything walking has to offer. 'You don't need any special equipment to join in and all our walks during the festival are free, so why not come along and take those important first steps towards a healthier and happier lifestyle.' Tavistock Ramblers group has just published its summer walks programme, which can be found on the website.