Canal acts as free gym on your doorstep

OLDHAMERS are discovering how nature is helping provide them with a free gym to get fit.

The annual Rochdale Canal Festival is showcasing a range of free activities, including cycling, running, walking and canoeing, to encourage residents to make the most of what the waterway has to offer.

Lucy Rogers, Rochdale Canal development manager for The Waterways Trust, said: “The festival provides a fantastic opportunity for people to get inspired and discover the many different ways that the waterway can help improve their lifestyle.

“The new all-weather towpath stretching from Castlefield to the Canal Summit near Todmorden makes the pathway ideal for cycling, running and walking throughout the year, and then there is the water which can be used for canoeing and kayaking.

“We are running a range of taster experiences, guided walks and cycle rides throughout the week-long festival, all of which are provided free of charge, and we want as many people as possible to come along, find out more about the canal and have a go at the different activities on offer.”

The festival runs until Sunday and includes the following activities at Failsworth’s Canal Basin:

Tomorrow, 9.40 -11.30am and 11.10am-1pm: canoe taster sessions (pre-booking required on 0161-770 2198).

Tomorrow, 10-11am and 11am-noon: guided bike ride (12 years and over, pre-booking required on 07921-174382)

Friday: canal walk (pre-booking required 07870 857972.)