FOLLOWING the recent success of the Tavistock Walk and Talk scheme, a new programme of walks for the early part of this year has been announced. Designed to help people increase their physical activity and socialise, the walks have attracted more than 80 people, taking part in the equivalent of 407 walks between September and December. Participants have all enjoyed a great way to meet new people and get more exercise at a level they feel comfortable with. The shorter Tuesday walks will continue from the Wharf at 10.30am from January 8, until March 25. These are on the level, with no steep hills or steps, and take between 30 and 45 minutes. The slightly more challenging walks begin again from the Wharf at 10am today (Thursday) until March 27. These are suitable for those who want to walk at a faster pace and are able to cope with hills, and take over an hour. The Walk and Talk scheme is supported by Natural England, the 5x30 Project, Devon County Council Travelwise and West Devon Borough Council, who all expressed thanks to the walk leader volunteers for their hard work in making the initiative such a success. Volunteer help is still needed, and a free training day will be organised in the New Year to give more information and the skills needed to lead walks around Tavistock. Organisers are keen to let people know that the training, and the walk leading, is not difficult, and the emphasis is definitely on fun. For further details on how to become a walk leader or the free training day please contact Tammy Messenger, Borough Council sports development officer, on 01822 813628.
