Take a good walk and feel the benefits

DITCH the cars and buses and put on your walking shoes instead.

“Walking works” is the message from transport bosses, who have launched a series of guided walks to encourage people to get active and healthier.

The leisure and health walks range from a Sense Safari fun walk aimed at children, to a nature walk for those who want to brush up on their photography skills.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has arranged the walks as part of a year-long project, funded by the Department of Health, to tackle inactivity and promote better travel choices.

Greater Manchester has areas of some of the highest health inequality and lowest levels of activity in the country — around 80 per cent of residents do not take the recommended level of physical activity.

Manchester councillor Andrew Fender, chair of the TfGM Committee, said: “Walking is good for you in so many ways, with just 20 minutes a day giving real, proven health benefits. It’s also good for the environment and won’t cost you a penny.

“Taking part in one of our free walks is a great way to get out, meet new people, and see some of the fantastic heritage and nature Greater Manchester has to offer.”