Our lively bunch is full of chatter and laughter

Every Wednesday, Ian Kelly laces up his trainers and sets off to meet the walking group that has, over the past eight years, helped him improve his health – and make new friends.

The 67-year-old, from East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, joined his local Paths For All’s Health Walk after suffering several heart attacks and being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder.

He saw an ad for the group, went along, and has been going ever since.

“You are out in the fresh air, you meet new people, and you get a bit of a routine,” explained Ian, who was involved in the 2013 Clutha helicopter crash, which saw him sustain injuries and lose his best friend.

“Walking in the woods, you get to experience spring, summer, autumn and winter. You see nature in all its glory and even a bit of wildlife, like deer. Apart from the benefits of walking, you also get together with people who become friends.”

He added: “We start off quite quickly, slow down a wee bit and then speed up again, so it’s aimed at stimulating your body and heart without being overly strenuous. You can walk at your own pace and there’s always someone at the front and the back of the group – we make sure everyone is well taken care of.

“We are a lively bunch so there’s lots of chatter and laughter. But there’s no obligation so you can also just have a quiet walk, too.”

The walking group has proved so beneficial to Kelly, three years after joining he decided to train to become a Health Walk Leader, which sees him “give people the safe space” he has enjoyed so much over the years.

Kelly says they have continued to attract new members – and there’s always room for more. He said: “Since the end of the last lockdown, we have attracted one or two new members each week. Some come for the companionship, some say it helps their mental health. I hope the new members get the same amazing benefits as I have.”