PEOPLE in the South West are being encouraged to get out on their feet and discover the wonders of walking during the Ramblers biggest ever free short walks festival from 3-10 May.

Get Walking Week makes it easier for people to take their first steps into walking, which leads to a happier and healthier lifestyle.

During the week the Ramblers will be offering free short walks in the South West, giving people a taster of what walking is all about.

Although walking is very straightforward, the benefits are endless.

It’s good for your health, it lifts your mood, it’s a sociable activity you can do with family or friends and a great way to meet new people.

It also counts towards the recommended 150 minutes of physical activity people should be doing each week.

Simon Barnett, director of walking development at the Ramblers, said: “We’ve seen first-hand what a positive impact regular walking can have on people’s lives so we are keen to open up opportunities to everyone so they can benefit too.

“We want as many people as possible to step out on one of our short walks during Get Walking Week so that they can experience the benefits walking has to offer.

"You don’t need any special equipment to join in and all our walks during the festival are free, so why not find a walk near you and take those important first steps towards a healthier and happier lifestyle.

“If you’d prefer to head out on your own time with friends and family, then we have hundreds of free routes throughout Great Britain on our Ramblers Routes that you can download – and hundreds more available if you become a member.”

Ramblers groups will be leading plenty of walks throughout the South West for everyone to enjoy.

To find a walk to go on, visit www.ramblers.org.uk/getwalkingweek.