WALKING groups have joined forces and new ones are being created in an initiative to get more people active.

South Craven Strollers are amongst groups that now come under the umbrella of Ramblers Wellbeing Walks.

The wellbeing walks venture was launched nationally by charity The Ramblers at the start of this year.

North Yorkshire Sport has worked with The Ramblers and Stronger Communities to bring together several existing walking for health groups, including some that have been operating for as long as 15 years.

Free group walks are led by trained volunteers.

All the walks are short ­— lasting between half an hour and 90 minutes – and cover easy ground, so are ideal for non-experienced walkers or people with some mobility issues.

In North Yorkshire, £8,000 of initial funding was provided by the county council’s public health and Stronger Communities teams to help unify walking groups, establish new ones and support training for walk leaders.

A further £8,000 will be provided for the next year to expand the scheme geographically and to target specific groups of people, such as black and minority ethnic communities.

North Yorkshire Sport has co-ordinated training for 25 volunteer walk leaders. And nine people have completed a 'train the trainer' course, which will enable groups to deliver walk leader training to potential volunteers.

David Watson, chief executive of North Yorkshire Sport, said: "Even a small amount of walking will give your health and wellbeing a significant boost if you are currently not active, as many people have found out.

"Before the pandemic lockdown periods, people may not have been out walking much – but joining Ramblers Wellbeing Walks North Yorkshire has given them new purpose.

"The walks are a great way to meet new people, walk in good company and give your health and wellbeing a boost. Maybe you need some support to experience the joys of walking? Everyone is welcome, so give it a try."

County Councillor Greg White, executive member for stronger communities, welcomed the funding support for the scheme.

He added: "There is a strong appetite within North Yorkshire’s communities to support each other, backed by the will and skills to make that happen.

"This funding is benefitting people across the county, thanks to the efforts of North Yorkshire Sport and the dedicated individuals within these walking groups."

For further information about the scheme and how to get involved, go to beta.ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/wellbeing-walks-groups/ramblers-wellbeing-walks-north-yorkshire.