Bridport Health Walks marking 20 years of keeping people active

Dorset Council runs the scheme, aiming to get people out and about

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 20th Feb 2023

The Bridport Health Walks scheme, which offers short, guided walks around the town, is celebrating its 20th year this month.

The routes are run by volunteers and managed by Dorset Council, making sure there's no steep hills or gates to climb over.

The walks are designed for those who want to meet others and get a bit more active, every Wednesday morning.

The Health Walks in Bridport are a great way for local people to meet up and keep active

The group meets up at the United Church on East Street at 9.45am, and the walks take around 30-40 minutes.

A slightly longer walk (45-60 mins) is also held on the first Thursday of every month, meeting at The Cowshed at the allotments next to the medical centre (plot 17) at 10.30am.

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 go on different routes around Bridport each week, and deliberately don't include steep hills or gate climbing

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.

For more information on Health Walks or to register your interest in volunteering, please contact Dorset Council’s Health & Activity Team by emailing dorsethealthwalks@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

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