THE Wiltshire Walkers are planning a ramble to raise funds for a mental health charity.

They are staging a five-mile walk on Sunday, April 26, starting from Westwood Social Club at 10am for two hours covering the Avoncliff, Freshford, Iford and Westwood near Bradford on Avon.

It has been organised by Nic Downes, of Tynings Way, Westwood, and Carl Davies, her friend of 26 years, who are both former pupils of the John O’Gaunt School in Trowbridge.

Ms Downes, 39, said: “I have recently lost a friend to suicide and a friend of the group lost her partner in the same way so we are doing a charity walk in April to raise as much awareness and money for ‘MIND’ to try and smash a £10,000 target.

“We want to encourage people who suffer from anxiety, mental health, loneliness etc or anyone to take part and enjoy the beautiful countryside.”

The Wiltshire Walkers have already gathered around 300 members on their Facebook page. One member of the group has already raised £4,000 towards the target.

Ms Downes added: “We want the whole of Wiltshire to help us, join the walk and encourage each other to start talking. It’s okay not to be okay. Children and dogs are welcome to come along.”To join the walk or the Wiltshire Walkers group, contact Nic on 07543 305 594

or email nicgraydownes@gmail.com