A first for the county, Rutland Walking Week will run from Saturday until Friday, 23 October.
The launch event on Saturday will be at Sykes Lane, Rutland Water, with three walks beginning at 10.30am.
As well as encouraging Rutlanders to get fit and healthy, the 22 free walks will explore routes around the county that most people will not k
now about.
The Active Recreation and Discover Rutland teams have been working together to develop a packed programme and Walking Week booklets are available from Rutland County Council offices and the county museum.
There are long and short walks and a chance to have a go at Nordic walking – with a pole – please book places for this on 07790 226115.
Tomorrow's outings are a short walk across the dam and into Normanton and back, a six to eight-mile longer walk taking in various villages and a more serious nine to 10-mile hike taking in part of the Rutland Round and the Viking Way.
All walks will have a guide. Wear sturdy clothing and take refreshments. Dogs on a lead are welcome.
l An Oakham group is hoping to get more people to join them on regular Tuesday morning health walks.
The group meets at Barlow Road community room at 10.30am weekly and sets off for an hour's stroll around the town before returning for a cuppa and biscuits.
Meetings are held regardless of the weather – if it's too bad for walking then a few chair exercises are done instead.
Walks are friendly and aimed at all ages and abilities.
More details from Debbie Marsh – e-mail debmarsh@yahoo.com or ring Georgie Lancaster on 01572 756755.
