Natural England

The ‘Bere Regis Walking Group’ is the first group in the South West to be awarded Natural England’s Certificate of Accreditation for its ‘Walking the way to Health’ scheme.

Sue Moore from Natural England said, ‘The Bere Regis Walking Group is a brilliant example of how well a group can be run. The regular walks are well attended and cater for a wide range of abilities. Not only are walkers assured of having a healthy and fun time but all the necessary risk assessments and insurance requirements have been attended too. This is a huge achievement and Natural England are pleased to be able to present the Group with this well earned Certificate’.

The ‘Walking the way to Health’ initiative is part of Natural England’s Health Campaign, which focuses on the enjoyment of the natural environment for health benefits. Growing medical evidence shows that access to the natural environment improves health and wellbeing, prevents disease and helps people recover from illness. Experiencing nature in the outdoors can help tackle childhood obesity, coronary heart disease, stress and mental health problems.

Lynda Crisford, Bere Regis Walking Group Co-ordinator said, ‘Our main aim is to get people out walking in their local communities, particularly those who don’t currently walk very much. Our Group provides a safe and friendly way for people to enjoy our beautiful local environment. We have all worked hard to ensure our Group works well so we are proud to receive the first Accreditation Certificate from Natural England in the South West.’

The Bere Regis Walking Group meet every Tuesday at 10.30 at Manor Farm Road car park. There is a 30 minute walk for the more mature walker and a 60 minute walk for the keen walker, all on good paths or pavements around the village.

To find out more about walks in your area please visit whi.org.uk

Notes for Editor

1. The ‘Walking the way to Health’ initiative (WHI) is the largest national body promoting and setting the standards for led health walks. It is a joint initiative between Natural England and the British Heart Foundation.

2. Since it’s launch in 2000, nationally WHI has helped to create a network of over 450 local health walk schemes and trained over 31,500 people as volunteer walk leaders. This includes 14 groups in Dorset providing weekly led walks suitable for all abilities and ages and it’s a great way to make new friends as well as take some exercise.

3. For more information about the Bere Regis Walking Group please contact Lynda Crisford on 01929 471180.

4. The attached image of Bere Regis walkers can only be used in connection with this press release.

5. Natural England works for people, places and nature to conserve and enhance biodiversity, landscapes and wildlife in rural, urban, coastal and marine areas. We conserve and enhance the natural environment for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing and enjoyment of people, and the economic prosperity it brings.

6. For more information about this press release please contact Dot Isgrove on 07880 784757 or Sue Moore on 01929 557458.