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Walk, have fun (and get healthy too)
Posted on 27/07/2007
P. Klein
Something for everyone at the Leicestershire Walking Festival - Saturday 4th August
Its time to get those walking boots cleaned and walking socks washed - ready to face a fantastic day in the heart of the Leicestershire countryside. (Wellies are welcome too!)
The Leicestershire Walking Festival is a partnership between the County Council, other local councils and various voluntary groups. It celebrates exploring more, enjoying good company, and finding out how to make the most of the countryside.
Starting at the fascinating Bosworth Battlefield Centre between 9.30am and 4.30pm.
The family friendly day offers FREE walks and other outdoor activities giving everyone the chance to have fun outdoors. You can experience:
30 minutes taster walks " on surfaced paths which will suit younger children and most pushchairs.
countryside strolls
a ramble returning by train,
a 12 mile hike
Orienteering courses for novices and children
A Pirates of the Battlefield Treasure Hunt with prizes
a short wildlife-spotting Eye-Spy Nature walk
Guided by experienced leaders you can stretch yourself or simply stroll. At the Battlefield Visitor Centre there will be information and displays on healthy eating and local walking, and great prizes to be won in different competitions. After the walks why not relax and refuel with delicious food and drinks from Tithe Barn Restaurant whilst watching a modern Jive demonstration. But be warned, they will want you to join in.
"Weve got a great programme laid on, with something for everyone. We want to encourage people to walk more and tempt them with local opportunities. Walking is ideal exercise and the best way to discover the delights of Leicestershires countryside. said Sue Hayes, Access Officer, Leicestershire County Council, Rights of Way Team.
The walks and activities are mostly free but places are best booked in advance. Car parking costs £1.50. Theres no need for big boots or tight lycra. Loose clothing, a coat just in case and suitable, comfortable shoes will do.
For booking or more information telephone the Battlefield Centre on 01455 290429 or log onto www.leics.gov.uk/walking_festival
Background Information
Experts recommend at least half an hour of moderate exercise five days a week, but only 20% of people in the UK currently get enough exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle and fitness level (NHS Direct)
Lack of exercise now causes more illness in the EU than smoking (World Health Organisation)
Walking is an excellent way to boost well-being and quality of life. It is an ideal way to exercise whilst spending time with family and friends. There is no expensive gym membership and it is much gentler than jogging. Regular brisk walking reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes, aids weight loss, improves memory and mental agility and helps prevent colds. If youre currently inactive you only need to be active for 30 minutes, five times a week to significantly improve your health.
Its more enjoyable when you can walk away from roads. Even on country lanes theres risk and intrusion from speeding traffic. Footpaths, bridleways and byways are the best routes to connect with the natural world, drink in the views and find tranquillity. Leicestershire has over 3,000 kilometres (1,875 miles) of Rights of Way; nearly 95% of people in the county have one within 500 metres of where they live. The County Council works to keep the routes accessible and make them easier to use.
The walking festival is aimed at anyone whos new to exploring the countryside as well as regular active users. You can find out where you can go and what you can do, and enjoy sharing the walking experience with other people. The featured walks are led by experienced leaders from a range of local organisations. There will also be trained people on hand to help you get the best benefits from walking however fit or healthy you are. The Bosworth Battlefield is an ideal place to give walking a try. The site itself has surfaced paths with gates rather than stiles, as well as being an ideal starting point for walks further afield.
The Festival co-ordinated by Leicestershire County Council in collaboration with the local Ramblers Association, Physical Activity Co-ordinators from the District Councils, the Leicestershire Footpaths Association, and other local volunteers.