PEOPLE are being encouraged to explore the countryside and improve their health.

THE West Cheshire Walking Festival 2019 promises to be bigger and better.

A collection of guided walks, social groups, walking routes, and walking sports have been published for everyone to enjoy.

The festival, organised by Active Cheshire, runs throughout May and offers something for everyone.

A free booklet gives details of 200 different walks.

Walks are led by local groups and organisations or are simply accessible routes which will take residents on a journey across west Cheshire, taking in the picturesque background and charming scenery.

In west Cheshire, more than 28 per cent of adults do less than 30 minutes of physical activity a week – far from the chief medical officer recommendations of 150 minutes of moderate level physical activity a week.

For most people, walking is the simplest form of activity to encourage better health.

Public Health England have even found that one brisk 10 minute walk a day has health benefits.

Anne Boyd, chief executive officer, at Active Cheshire, said: “The West Cheshire Walking Festival is even bigger and better in 2019, with the free booklet showing more than 200 opportunities to take a walk in west Cheshire.

"There really is something for everyone and a wide range from city walks to heritage trails and for the more adventurous, why not take in some of our amazing countryside?

"The walking festival is once again brought together in true partnership fashion and this is exactly what we need to help tackle the issues of physical inactivity.

"Active Cheshire are immensely proud to have been involved in the coordination of the festival and look forward to seeing some great pictures and meeting more people taking a walk in May.”

The festival brochure can be found in a range of local community facilities including libraries, GP Surgeries, Brio leisure centres and can be downloaded at activecheshire.org.

Ian Ashworth, director of public health at Cheshire West and Chester Council said:“Cheshire West and Chester has so many places for residents to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. By bringing together all of these opportunities and places to visit we really hope to support and encourage local people to move more and make lasting changes in their everyday habits.

" Walking is a simple but effective way to keep physically fit and it improves your mood. It’s also a great way to meet new people and to see the wonderful sights that our borough has to offer; and it is fun.”

The festival brochure is available at libraries, GP Surgeries, Brio leisure centres and can be downloaded at activecheshire.org.