LIVEWIRE is hosting a regular series of free walks and volunteers are being sought to help keep it going.

The community interest company, which manages leisure and library services in Warrington, wants walkers to experience the 'wonderful wildlife and wild spaces in Warrington'.

The Health Walks programme has recently relaunched following lockdown and organisers are keen to get as many people involved as possible because of all health benefits – both physical and mental.

Walking is a low impact exercise that has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes plus getting out in the fresh air with friends can help combat loneliness and depression.

And with more people than ever rediscovering walking as an enjoyable form of exercise during the pandemic, demand for places on the walks is high and so LiveWire is looking for volunteers to help lead future sessions.

Matthew Fairhurst, lifestyles advisor for LiveWire, said: “It has been wonderful to be able to relaunch our Health Walks following lockdown – and they are as popular as ever.

"Many people have increased their walking habits ever over the past year and rediscovered a new-found appreciation for what is a fantastic activity for both your body and your mind.

“Our walks are ideal for those who would like to get outside, get fitter, and be a little more social.

"They are weekly guided walks around green and open spaces in an around Warrington and range from 30 minutes and build up to longer 90-minute routes.

"They are free to join and be attended as often as you like and be a significant benefit to your physical health and mental well-being.

Matthew Fairhurst, lifestyles advisor for LiveWire

Matthew Fairhurst, lifestyles advisor for LiveWire

“However in order to be able to offer as many or as diverse walks as we would like, we are appealing for volunteers who can offer some of their time to lead some walks.

"It’s a great way to help others in your community to get active and healthy, providing vital support to people – while staying active themselves.

“A volunteer will provide that opportunity to show others what a great town Warrington is for walking – lots of green spaces, lots of wildlife and nature and little or no hills. If you’re a keen walker who thinks the walking boot might fit please get in touch.”

No previous experience of leading groups is necessary as full training and on-going support will be available to volunteers and be flexible to suit around their free time.

All walks are designed for a wide range of abilities but they may include muddy and uneven ground or stiles. Walks are subject to Covid secure procedures and participants must pre-book their place on each walk up to seven days in advance.

These are the remaining walks throughout May:

May 17, 11am, Victoria Park

Meet on main car park off Knutsford Road, 60 to 90 mins walk

May 19, 1pm Horse Shoe Inn

Meet in park across the road, Smithy Lane, Croft, WA3 7HQ 90+ mins walk

May 21, 10.30 am Woolston Neighbourhood Hub

Meet in car park, Hall Road, WA1 4PN 90 mins walk

May 24, 11am Victoria Park

Meet on main car park off Knutsford Road, 60 to 90 mins walk

May 26, 1pm Birchwood Forest Park

Meet at Moss Gate car park, WA3 6UZ, 90 mins walk

May 28, 10.30am Woolston Neighbourhood Hub

Meet in car park, Hall Road, WA1 4PN, 90 mins walk

For more information on LiveWire’s Health Walks programme including how to sign up go to livewirewarrington.co.uk/lifestyle/health-walks or call 0300 003 0818 for more information about volunteering. You can also email lifestyles@livewirewarrington.org