18th May 2006

No walking boots required!

Walks for beginners every Friday, June- September

Don’t consider yourself a walker, but would like to give it a try, then this series of walks is for you. The pace is leisurely, the atmosphere friendly and the aim is to encourage people to get some fresh air, meet new people and take some exercise at the same time. The ‘Walks for Beginners’ programme, organised by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership, will take place every Friday from June to the end of September starting at Aldershot Park car park, Guildford Road, Aldershot on Friday 2nd June.

“Walking is such a simple way of exercising, but many people don’t have anyone to walk with, so our ‘Walks for Beginners’ programme has been devised especially for them.,” explained Christine Reeves, Visitor Promotions Officer for the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership. “As well as being a sociable event these walks also have a health benefit, because when you are walking and talking with others you will be surprised at the distance you walk.”

The walks are predominantly along surfaced paths or pavements and are relatively flat. They will be in and around the Blackwater Valley, so if you live in Aldershot, Ash, Farnborough or Mytchett there will be a monthly walk in your area. Booking is not required you just turn up on the day. The walks take place every Friday afternoon during June, July, August and September starting at 2pm, and lasting between 1½- 2 hours. Flat comfy shoes, a drink and sun screen or a raincoat are recommended. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

If you would like any further information ring Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership on 01252 331353 or visit the website www.blackwater-valley.org.uk

END

For more information contact:
Christine Reeves, Visitor Promotions Officer on 01252 331353.

Notes

FULL PROGRAMME - Start Points:

June
2nd Aldershot Park car park, Guildford Road, Aldershot.
9th Lakeside Park, Lakeside Road, Ash.
16th Farnborough Gate outside Courts, Farnborough Road, Farnborough.
23rd Frimley Lodge Park car park, Sturt Road, Mytchett.
30th Rowan Field car park, Shawfield Lane, Ash.

July
7th  Aldershot Park car park, Guildford Road, Aldershot.
14th Lakeside Park, Lakeside Road, Ash.
21st Farnborough Gate outside Courts, Farnborough Road, Farnborough.
28th Frimley Lodge Park car park, Sturt Road, Mytchett.

August
4th  Aldershot Park car park, Guildford Road, Aldershot.
11th Lakeside Park, Lakeside Road, Ash.
18th Farnborough Gate outside Courts, Farnborough Road, Farnborough.
25th Frimley Lodge Park car park, Sturt Road, Mytchett.

September
1st    Aldershot Park car park, Guildford Road, Aldershot.
8th   Lakeside Park, Lakeside Road, Ash.
15th Farnborough Gate outside Courts, Farnborough Road, Farnborough.
22nd Frimley Lodge Park car park, Sturt Road, Mytchett.
29th Rowan Field car park, Shawfield Lane, Ash.

• The Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership (BVCP) is funded by the County, District and Parish Councils along the River Blackwater. It works to promote community action in conservation and recreation and to protect the Valley for the enjoyment and well being of the whole community.
• Members of the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership are: Hampshire County Council, Surrey County Council; the District, Town and Borough Councils of Blackwater & Hawley, Bracknell Forest, Farnham, Guildford, Hart, Rushmoor, Sandhurst, Surrey Heath, Waverley, Wokingham and Yateley.