Simply Walk, Buckinghamshire Council's walking for health and wellbeing scheme, celebrates its 20th anniversary this July.
The scheme, which started with an inaugural walk in Marlow, attended by local resident and rowing legend Sir Steve Redgrave in 2002, has developed into a popular, ever-growing programme, attracting thousands of walkers on dozens of routes every week.
The idea behind the scheme developed from the Walking for Health initiative pioneered by GP, Richard Bird.
Walkers of any age and ability are invited to join one of the many walks across the county. Most take place weekly and are graded for their level of difficulty.
All walks are guided by a team of enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers who lead and back-mark the walks. The aim is to give participants the opportunity to walk for fitness in a relaxed environment.
The walks have additional benefits for mental health and wellbeing, giving those who take part have access to a social and friendly group of like-minded people, helping to tackle social isolation and loneliness.
Simply Walk currently runs 72 walks a week with just over 2,000 people regularly taking part. The scheme is supported by a team of 237 active volunteers.
Over the years the scheme has had numerous highlights including several couples who met on walks going on to marry!
Later in July, a picnic will take place at Hughenden Manor to say thank you to the scheme's volunteers, without whom the walks would be unable to take place.
Steven Broadbent, Cabinet Member for Transport said: "I am delighted to see the success of our Simply Walk scheme. Since it started in 2002 it has gone from strength to strength. I would like to thank the staff and volunteers who have made this happen and also all the people who have taken part and continue to do so.
"We all know the benefits of exercise for our health and wellbeing but sometimes it can be hard to find something that suits. That is what is so great about Simply Walk – it allows people to exercise in a relaxed way at a pace that suits them.
“It also has the added benefit of supporting mental wellbeing by encouraging people to get out and meet with others.”
To find out more visit: www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/simply-walk
New location for Buckingham May Day celebration
Bucks Council unveils ambitious Housing Strategy for 2024-2029
Man sentenced for breaching CBO in Buckingham
Knife Amnesty Bins proving successful
Amnesty Bins in Southcourt Helping to Keep Nitrous Oxide off the streets.
E-fit released following assault in High Wycombe
Majority of Bucks families get first choice primary school place
New High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire appointed
