HEALTH Minister Ben Bradshaw accompanied the Tavistock Walk and Talk Scheme last Thursday to urge more people from all walks of life to get out and get active.
Sir Martin Doughty, chair of Natural England, joined Mr Bradshaw on the walk which marks the launch of three new publications under the banner 'Walk More . . . Feel the Difference'.
The new publications are designed to encourage less active people to start walking and include two special versions, one for adults with learning difficulties and one endorsed by the Royal National Institute for the Blind.
Mr Bradshaw said: 'These new leaflets will help more people to enjoy the countryside for their health and well-being.
'They will reach over 100,000 people across the country via healthcare professionals and social networks, encouraging more and more people to get out and get active in the natural environment.'
Sir Martin presented the Tavistock Walk and Talk Scheme with a certificate of its new accreditation as part of the Walking your Way to Health Initiative. WHI — a joint initiative between Natural England and the British Heart Foundation — represents the largest national programme promoting and setting the standards for led health walks.
He said: 'Walking groups are crucial to the success of the WHI scheme and we are delighted to provide the Tavistock Walk and Talk group with accreditation today.'
Mayor of West Devon Terry Pearce said the borough council, which manages the Walk and Talk scheme, has been delighted with its success. He said partnership working between the council, Natural England and 5x30 Health Promotion Project had enabled the project to flourish.
He said: 'We are extremely fortunate to have wonderful volunteers who have been trained to lead these health walks and without them the scheme wouldn't exist.'
Accepting the award on behalf of the Tavistock Walk and Talk Scheme, Kate Wright, said: 'Tavistock Walk and Talk is proud to receive the accreditation. Our group provides a safe and friendly way for people to get fitter and enjoy our beautiful local environment.
'We welcome new walkers throughout the year. If you'd like to walk with us or train as a 'Walking the Way to Health' Volunteer Walk Leader please contact the scheme co-ordinator, Hannah Colston, on 07990 804756.'