Bridport Health Walks, a council-led scheme offering short, guided walks around the town, is celebrating its 20th year this month.

The scheme, which is run by volunteers and managed by Dorset Council, offers gentle walks around Bridport. 

With no steep hills or gates to climb over, the walks are ideal for those who want to meet others and get a bit more active.

The walks take place every Wednesday, starting from the United Church on East Street at 9:45am, and take around 30 to 40 minutes. 

There is also the opportunity to join a slightly longer walk (45 to 60 minutes) on the first Thursday of every month, meeting at The Cowshed, at the allotments next to the medical centre (plot 17) at 10.30am.

Health walks are free to join, and the trained volunteers encourage everyone to walk at their own pace. A walk leader remains at the rear of the group to make sure that even the slowest walker has someone to walk and talk with.

A full list of upcoming dates and times of walks can be found on the Dorset Council website, along with a contact email and telephone number.

Cllr Laura Beddow, Dorset Council's portfolio holder for Culture, Customer and Community Services, said: "Health Walks take place all across Dorset and benefit so many of our residents. They're the perfect way to get more active and meet new people whilst exploring the beautiful parks, greenspaces, towns and villages our county has to offer.

"Thank you to the trained volunteers at Bridport who have kept this group going for over two decades. These dedicated individuals not only lead the walks, but also check out new routes, offer a friendly ear, and make sure no one is left behind. 

"We're always looking for volunteers to support the team, so if you enjoy walking and would like to become a walk leader, please do get in touch."

The walks are part of a national programme with over 8,000 walk leaders supporting schemes around the country. All volunteers are required to undertake free training, which can be attended online or in person. To find out more about becoming a walk leader visit the Dorset Council website.

The next Bridport Health Walk will be taking place on Wednesday, February 22.  If you would like to join one of the walks, just turn up about 10 minutes before the start to fill in a short form.

For more information on Health Walks or to register your interest in volunteering, please contact Dorset Council's Health & Activity Team by emailing [email protected]