AS the evenings start to draw in, spare a thought for those around you who, at this time of year, see fewer people, have less social interaction and are unable to get out as easily to enjoy regular exercise.

The Tamar Valley AONB team is seeking volunteers to lead walks and support walkers to help them stay motivated, in the Gunnislake area, which will make such a difference to many people's every day lives as autumn and winter sets in.

Anyone can join the group and the Tamar Valley AONB is encouraging people to just come along. It will be a chance to make new friends and explore the local area, with no specialist equipment required.

The Tamar Valley AONB team will be working in partnership with Walking for Health and the Living Well programme, to promote the benefits of walking.

The aim of the scheme is to reduce the risk of individuals going into hospital, helping them to become more active and socially mobile in order to regain their strength and fitness.

Becki Lumbis, education and community resource officer from the Tamar Valley AONB team, said: 'We're aiming to run weekly walks of varying lengths, from just ten minutes to around one and a half hours.

If anyone can spare any time at all to lead a walk, we would love to hear from them.

'All training is provided and all walks will be risk assessed and mapped ready for the leaders.

'People won't be alone, as there will be two walk leaders per session.'

If you feel you would like to help, or would like further information, please contact Becki at the Tamar Valley AONB team on 01822 835030, email [email protected]">[email protected] or pop into the Tamar Valley Centre, Drakewalls.