Awards for healthy walkers

Last updated: 30 August 2012 09:20

Healthy walkers

Nine Portsmouth people have won awards – just by walking round the city and giving their wellbeing a boost.

Each of them has completed 100 healthy walks from a programme run by Portsmouth City Council.

The walks, all free, offer people an easy way of getting exercise. They take place throughout the year, on city streets as well as in green areas. There are 15 routes and you can do as many or as few as you like.

The award-winners gathered at HMS Warrior in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard (PHD) to receive certificates and baskets of fruit from the council, and a complimentary pass to the dockyard’s attractions, donated by PHD.

Paula Day, the council community development officer who runs the walks, said: “These people started doing our healthy walks for all sorts of reasons.

“One was out of work, one had been recently bereaved, one had just retired, and another started for health reasons.

“They’ve all found that walking is an easy way to get a bit fitter and to meet new people. You get out in the fresh air and give your spirits a lift.

“Our walks programme has something for everyone and covers all areas of the city – anyone can join in. Some of the walks are even suitable for buggies, wheelchairs or mobility scooters.”

Anyone interested in trying a healthy walk should search ‘Portsmouth healthy walks’ at www.portsmouth.gov.uk or contact Paula on 023 9268 8390 for more information or a leaflet.