The West Cheshire Walking Festival brings together a collection of guided walks, social groups and walking routes across west Cheshire for residents to enjoy.
As part of the event, a free brochure brings together hundreds of walks from all over the borough, offering ‘something for everyone’.
Walks are led by local groups or organisations or are simply accessible routes which will take residents on a journey across West Cheshire, taking in the picturesque background and charming scenery.
It’s been revealed that in Cheshire West and Chester more than 65,000 people admit to doing less than 30 minutes of physical activity per week – a far cry from the Chief Medical Officer’s recommendations of 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week.
For most people, walking is the easiest form of physical activity. Public Health England found that one brisk 10 minute walk a day has a number of health benefits, with their guidance recommending three 10-minute brisk walks every day to reap the multiple rewards for health.
Active Cheshire is working with Cheshire West and Chester Council to coordinate the event.
Anne Boyd, CEO at Active Cheshire, said: “The brochure shares over 190 walks catering for all abilities and interests.
“Partnerships like this with Cheshire West and Chester Council are exactly what is needed to help tackle the physical inactivity problem in the local area, as well as make best use of our fantastic outdoor spaces.”
Ian Ashworth, director of public health at Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “Cheshire West and Chester has so many places for residents to explore and enjoy the great outdoors.
“By bringing together all of these opportunities and places we really hope to support and encourage local people to move more and make lasting changes in their everyday habits.”
Ian added: “Walking is a simple but effective way to keep physically fit and it improves your mood through the release of endorphins.
“It’s also a great way to meet new people and to see the wonderful sights that our borough has to offer; and it is fun.”
Festival brochure can be found in libraries, council offices, Brio leisure centres and other places locally. They are also available to download from the Active Cheshire website.
