Free stepometer giveaway

FREE walks are being held and stepometers are being given away in Halton this May for National Walking Month.

Residents have been invited to take part in weekly short strolls at Murdishaw Health Centre in Runcorn at 11am on Tuesdays.

The walks range from 30 to 60 minutes.

There are also short jaunts of about 20 minutes every Monday at 1pm in Widnes for residents with learning disabilities and their carers, who meet at Victoria Park cafe and have a coffee together after finishing.

Halton Borough Council said walking is a great way to be active, meet other residents and explore, and counts towards the recommended 150 minutes of physical activity.

A spokeswoman for the local authority said only 61% of adults in England achieve this target or more.

She said walking is a free and simple solution but effective and could prevent 37,000 deaths a year, boosting health, wellbeing and confidence in a short time.

Paula Parle, scheme co-ordinator said: “We’re delighted to be supporting National Walking Month this May. Our volunteer walk leaders help all sorts of people to enjoy the many health benefits that regular walking brings, providing support every step of the way.”

“Our walkers have a great deal of fun, making new friends and getting to know their local area. Many of us know we should be more active, so why not join us this May and let us welcome you along to our next walk.”