MORE than 50 walkers and volunteer walk leaders recently took part in specially arranged walks to celebrate Tavistock Walk and Talk's third birthday. 

The celebratory walks took in routes along the Drake's Trail and Yelverton airfield, and were thoroughly enjoyed by all, despite some heavy showers.  

Cups of tea and a slice of birthday cake were warmly welcomed by the walkers, many of whom admit they are there for the social side as well as the physical benefits the exercise brings.

Kate Wright, Walk and Talk co-ordinator said: 'I was having phone calls on the day from walkers keen to join the celebration — some people were unable to do the walk itself but just wanted to be there to be part of the occasion.  This just proves how important Walk and Talk has become for the people of Tavistock. It isn't just the exercise that people get from taking part, but also the social side and friendships that have been made.'

The Walk and Talk scheme has gone from strength to strength since it started in 2007. It is completely free and caters for wheelchair users, those with restricted mobility and also those wishing to work hard and push themselves.

If anyone wants to take it one step further and become a volunteer walk leader, they are able to train for free.

Tavistock Walk and Talk is part of the Walking for Health initiative which aims to get people walking in their local community.

Weekly short walks, which start every Tuesday at 10.30am at the Wharf, are for people who do little or no physical activity or those restricted by mobility problems. Thursday weekly walks are longer and suitable for people who already do a certain amount of physical activity and are able to cope with hills. They meet at the Wharf at 10am. 

For more details about Walk and Talk in West Devon and  the regular walk programmes contact Kate Wright, Walk and Talk Co-ordinator, 01822 813571, 07920 786505 or [email protected]">[email protected]