Award puts a spring in step of walks programmes
Two popular country walking programmes have attained the top quality award from a Government health initiative.
The health walks schemes in Dacorum and Watford and Three Rivers came through an assessment with flying colours to receive the Three Heart Quality Mark from the national Walking the Way to Health initiative.
The award recognises the high quality of the walks organised in those areas, and aims to give potential participants confidence to take part.
Criteria for the award included having trained leaders in charge of walks, making physical improvements to the routes such as replacing stiles with gates, and including social activities like stopping for refreshments and a chat after the walk.
Isabel Crozier, assistant manager of the west and southern area for the Countryside Management Service, who co-ordinate the scheme, welcomed news of the awards.
She said: 'The Health Walks Scheme has surpassed expectations - more than 1,500 walkers now enjoy taking part in the two areas. Between 400 and 500 walks are being taken each month, with a new walker joining each day, and the scheme really is going from strength to strength.
'But the walks wouldn’t be possible without the 60 or so volunteer leaders who turn out come rain or shine. My thanks and congratulations go to them, and everyone else involved in the scheme, for achieving the Three Hearts Quality Mark.'
Walks are free of charge and cater for a wide range of physical fitness. If you would like to join those reaping the benefits of walking for health you can find out more here or ring the Countryside Management Service for a programme on 01727 848168.
