A SERIES of activities designed to “inspire and rediscover the outdoors” is being staged in Keighley.

More than 15 walks and other events will take place over a long weekend, between September 9 and 13.

“The programme of wanders and activities is in response to requests from residents who have enjoyed the ‘Welcome Walks’ we have promoted over the summer months,” said Shaun O’Hare, of Keighley Big Local.

“The event, which is supported by several local organisations, is designed to inspire and rediscover the outdoors.

“Everyone, from walking enthusiasts to residents who are not in the habit of a wander, will be able to choose from urban and rural walks and outdoor activities.

“Most walks will start in Keighley East – with the weekend kindly part-funded by the ward councillors – but we do have some activity further afield.”

Activities will also include an introduction to mountain navigation, with Keighley social enterprise Move2change. And there will be a chance for people to try Nordic walking with another Keighley-based social enterprise, Discover Tai Chi.

Mr O’Hare added: “With the support of residents and organised groups, we are promoting 17 walks and activities. Hopefully there is something for everyone and if there’s the interest we believe there will be, it will inform plans to host a more ambitious walking festival in 2022.”

Participants should wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Many of the walks and activities are accessible to people with limited mobility, but anyone with individual requirements is advised to check with the activity leader.

Booking for events opens on Wednesday (Aug 25) via Eventbrite – search Keighley Walks. For more information visit keighleybiglocal.org.uk.

The programme includes:

Thursday, September 9 – Keighley Town Walk, led by Keighley Healthy Living, 10am-noon; Low Wood Bat Walk, with West Yorkshire Bat Group, 8-9.30pm.

Friday, September 10 – Hidden Stars of the River Worth, 10-11.30am; Keighley Tarn, 10am-noon; The Keighley Round, a 23-mile walk around the parish boundaries of Keighley broken into three shorter walks over the weekend.

Saturday, September 11 – Discover Nordic Walking, East Riddlesden Hall, 9.30-11am; Keighley to Park Wood Circular, 10am-noon; Yorkshire Dales Mountain Navigation Training; Outdoor Play, forest schools for families, 9.30-11am.

Sunday, September 12 – Riddlesden Ramble, 10-11.30am; Cliffe Castle Fairy Doors, 10am and noon; Greenhow to Pateley Bridge, promoting the Dales Bus, 9.30am.

Monday, September 13 – Cliffe Castle Wellbeing Walk, including tai chi session, 2-3pm.