October 23, 2018

We are currently leading on a new Countywide Walking for Health Scheme and are recruiting and training new walk leaders across the County. Sign Up Here. 

The first group to be set up under the scheme is a new walking group called #Sundaywalknwags which is set to launch on Sunday 4^th November in Kendal with a twist! It’s led by Barking Mad South Lakes, a dog sitter. So dogs are welcome.

Being active especially outdoors has many physical, mental and social benefits. Whilst walking the dog not only helps you be active, it helps beats loneliness and depression, but many people can’t have a dog, it’s too much commitment, or just not practical.

The group is free to join and all are welcome on these monthly walks - dog or no dog. Walking in a group can work wonders for our wellbeing, improving mood and reducing loneliness, and having a dog to share your activity with is a wonderful addition.

Walk leader, Alison Quigley from Barking Mad South Lakes said;

“I have wanted to set up a low level, easy walking group for some time now, and I’m delighted to welcome people and their pooches to our very first #Sundaywalksnwags. As a dog owner myself, I love finding new walk options for me and my Bearded Collie, Yeshe. I always enjoy walking with friends and going for a coffee afterwards!.”

This new group has been set up in partnership with Active Cumbria, with the focus upon planning suitable walks in Kendal within the Walking for Health framework. Walking for Health is England's largest network of free group health walk schemes, run by the Ramblers and supported through funding from players of People’s postcode lottery and Macmillan.

Kelly Alty, Development Officer at Active Cumbria said;

“At Active Cumbria our focus is upon tackling inactivity and supporting people to become more physically active within their own communities, and what better way to do this than walking.  Nationally, we know that walking is the most popular activity, and a near perfect thing to do for those looking to become more active. We would love to see as many people as possible joining our health walks and discovering some of the fantastic scenery on their doorsteps.”

Walks will take place on the 1st Sunday of every month for 60-90 minutes, followed by an optional tea/coffee in a dog friendly café in Kendal. The first walk starts on Sunday 4th November, 10am meet at Kendal Library, and everyone is welcome with or without a furry friend! (Please note only well-behaved dogs on leads). For further information please contact Alison on 07341444272.