A NEW 'Walk and Talk' scheme to be launched in Okehampton later this month aims to encourage more people to take gentle exercise and meet people in the process.
The idea, developed by Mid Devon Primary Care Trust, is to encourage people to get active by joining weekly walks advertised through posters and in the local media.
The launch walk of the two-year scheme is being held at 11am on Tuesday, October 28, leaving from the main gate in the town's Simmons Park, followed by lunch for all the walkers in the Okement Centre. The walk will go ahead whatever the weather.
Organiser Helen Buxton-Smith said the walks were aimed at 'encouraging walking for all' with people able to go 'at their own pace'.
She said the first walk would last about 40 minutes and was planned to be more of an 'amble than a ramble'.
Mrs Buxton-Smith said: 'Many people would like to do more exercise but they are uncertain of how best to go about it and do not want to be competitive.
'By starting with short, easy walks and building-up, people can develop their interest, take exercise and meet new people. There is a great benefit from these type of schemes as has been proven from the success of so many others around the country.'
There will be an early boost for the scheme when the Countryside Agency presented a £7,000 sponsorship cheque, just prior to the start of the first walk on October 28.
The scheme is also being backed by West Devon Borough Council and Travelwise.
Mrs Buxton-Smith is looking for people who can act as walk leaders. After initial training they will be able to help organise and lead walks around the town.
For more information about the walks or how to become a walk leader contact Mrs Buxton-Smith on 01884 243200.