Go in store to enjoy the outdoors

West Berkshire Council's Walking for Health scheme has teamed up with outdoor retailing specialist Millets to promote healthy walking in the district.

Issued on 4 March 2010

The promotional partnership begins this month and sees Millets promoting Walking for Health in all of its 160 high street stores by offering customers details of local walking opportunities and the scheme.

Emma Hyde, Store Manager of Millets in Northbrook Street, Newbury said, "Millets shares the Walking for Health Initiative objective of encouraging more people to enjoy the outdoors are we are delighted to be associated with a scheme that promotes the many health and well-being benefits of the natural environment."

Hilary Cole, West Berkshire's Executive Councillor for the Environment said, "West Berkshire is blessed with over seventy percent of the district recognised as an area of outstanding natural beauty. This makes it perfect for walking and hiking. We are pleased to team up with Millets to promote the many benefits of walking and enjoying the outdoors. Walking is a fun, social activity which reduces stress and has a whole host of health benefits."

She added, "Walking for Health is a great opportunity to get out in a group discover new places and make new friends."

Walking for Health is free, can be done almost anywhere and is very safe. Dr William Bird, founder of the scheme said, "It's safer to go out walking than to remain sitting on your sofa."

Natural England states that people who do more physical activity have more energy and feel more motivated. Physical activity, such as walking, can also cut the risk of health problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, bowel cancer, breast cancer and depression.

Natural England's Walking for Health (WfH) Scheme supports led health walks nationwide. The schemes enable over 38,000 people every week to enjoy local natural spaces and benefit their health by taking part in the 2,500 health walks led by trained walk leaders, the largest national body promoting and setting the standards for led health walks.

Call into your local Millets store for more information.