BABY lambs and the feeling of spring in the countryside greeted Tavistock's Walk and Talk group recently, when they enjoyed a specially arranged mystery walk around one of the area's working farms.

Farmers Maureen and Terry Higgs kindly provided the venue for the special outing. Maureen, a regular volunteer walk leader, wanted to offer a different experience, so the walkers had the chance to watch a farrier at work, feed a baby lamb, and see the sheepdogs in action, as well as having a walk around the farm and surrounding moorland.

Tavistock Walk and Talk is part of the Walking for Health initiative which aims to get people walking in their local community and to gain the benefit of some company, fresh air and exercise.

Kate Wright, Walk and Talk co-ordinator, said: 'It is no mystery as to why this scheme has been so successful. It is thanks to all the volunteers and the walkers for regularly attending and supporting the weekly walks.

'Seeing everyone having such a good time made all the planning and preparation worthwhile. We desperately need more volunteers and the next training day is on Monday June 21 — please do contact me if you would like to get involved.'

Health walks are free to everyone and provide an easy way of getting regular exercise. Those who exercise enjoy greater life expectancy and reduce the risks of many diseases such as coronary heart disease.

The Walk and Talk Walking for Health scheme is supported by Devon County Council, Natural England and NHS Devon

Tavistock's weekly short walks, which take place every Tuesday at 10.30am from the Wharf, are for people who do little or no physical activity or people restricted by mobility problems.

Thursday weekly walks are longer and are suitable for people who already do a certain amount of physical activity and are able to cope with hills. They also meet at the Wharf at 10am.

For more details about Walk and Talk in West Devon and the walk programmes, contact Kate Wright, Walk and Talk co-ordinator, 01822 813571, 07920 786505 or [email protected]">[email protected] or http://www.westdevon.gov.uk">www.westdevon.gov.uk