Wokingham

Wokingham District Council and The Bulmershe School have begun a joint initiative to get people out and about for a walk and a natter in Woodley. Over 50s’ Talk ‘n’ Walk Sessions are taking place around the South Lake area, with walks lasting 30 to 60 minutes. Walkers meet outside the Thatcher’s pub in Woodley, accessible from the Woodley 63 and 65 bus routes, and refreshments are available at the end of the walk.

The walks are led by four specially trained walk leaders from the local area. If the venture is successful they hope to increase the number of walks that take place each week, and to introduce new walks in the New Year.

The training of the walk leaders and the refreshments on the walks have been funded by The Bulmershe School. As a specialist Sports College, the school has agreed to support the scheme as part of its community development action plan.

Director of community sport at the school Graham Swatridge said: “These walks are designed to complement the existing Health Walks scheme run by Wokingham District Council’s countryside service. The new walks are designed to encourage people who may not have done much physical exercise for a while. The Bulmershe School is keen to increase the opportunities on offer for the 50+ age group and is in negotiation with clubs, schools and centres to see what more can be done.’’

Walks take place on December 5 and 12, and January 9, 16 and 23 with walkers meeting at 1.45pm at the Thatcher’s pub for a short registration process before setting off on the walk at 2pm. Alternative walks are also planned to start at the Berkshire Aviation Museum, near the bus stop, close to Bader Way on January 9, 16 and 23, with walkers meeting at 9.45am for a 10am start.

People over 50 who would like more information, as well as anybody who is interested in becoming a walk leader, should contact Karol Thumwood or Graham Swatridge at The Bulmershe School on (0118) 935 8322 for further information. Any walker over 50 can just turn up on the day if they wish.

Executive member for community development Wokingham Cllr Dianne King said: “The council aims to provide a range of activities to the community that suit the particular needs of different groups. I am pleased with this initiative to bring more activities to people over 50 – it will be an opportunity for them to enjoy their surrounding area at a leisurely pace while meeting new people at the same time.”

Wokingham District Council