THIS autumn’s Health Walks programme has been expanded and improved to include Nordic and nature walks.

New 20 to 30 minute walks for beginners and people returning to exercise are to be introduced soon.

Led by Wigan Leisure Culture Trust Active Living staff , volunteers, park rangers, Lancashire Wildlife Trust and the Forestry Commission, the walks are ideal for people who want to improve their health and are great for all ages to take up walking in a safe and sociable atmosphere.

Nordic walking is an enhancement of ordinary walking using poles, and it works upper body muscles as well as legs. Booking for this is essential.

Not all walks are fully accessible for wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

Upcoming walks in the Leigh area are: Sept, 25: Nature Walk Borsdane Woods, Hindley: meet 11am tunnel entrance, Danes Avenue, 2 hours Sept. 28: Pennington Flash, Leigh, meet 11am by Rangers Hut, main car park (small charge), St Helens Road.

Sept. 30: Hindsford Park, Tyldesley, meet 11am, Lodge Lane, Tyldesley.

ember - November 2009 To request an autumn walks leaflet or for more information on any of the walks call the Active Living Team on 01942 488481