HEALTHY walkers in south Worcestershire are celebrating after strolling their way to success.

Two county walking groups have been selected as part of a handful in the West Midlands to be flagged up as the very best examples of the Countryside Agency's Walking the Way to Health.

Sole Mates in Malvern and South Worcestershire Walking Network were both set up as part of the scheme that was launched five years ago.

And to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the national scheme on Thursday, May 25 the two groups have been nominated as ideal examples for new groups to follow when setting up in the area.

Richard Preston, from Worcestershire County Council's Countryside Service, runs the groups and said he was thrilled they had gained recognition.

"People in Worcestershire have really got behind the scheme and meet regularly for short walks as well as recruiting others who may not walk regularly or have never even gone on a walk before to take part. This keeps residents healthier and fitter and is very enjoyable and we are pleased at the success of our schemes."

Walking the Way to Health is a pioneering scheme supported by the British Heart Foundation and The Big Lottery Fund.

It aims to encourage people to walk regularly to improve their general health both physically and mentally and to also recognise the social benefits of the pastime. The scheme officially ended in December last year but 96 per cent of the groups continued and integrated into various bodies including councils, Primary Care Trusts and public sector agencies and there are still many more setting up all the time. Nationally more than £1.5million people have been encouraged to walk more through 400 schemes with 20,000 specially trained walk leaders.

Sole Mates and South Worcestershire Walking Network will now go forward as contenders for the best practice examples and the winners will be announced on Thursday, May 25.

Mr Preston added: "The county groups really are best examples of this initiative and our volunteer walk leaders work really hard to get interest from people who want to join in or even set up their own groups."

Other county groups nominated as best examples are Bromsgrove walking Partnership and Stride and Stroll II, Kidderminster.

For more information on joining either of Mr Preston's groups call 01905 768244.

l University of Worcester Healthy Walks Group - part of South Worcestershire Walking Network - meets at the campus every Wednesday morning at 9.30am.

The walks are free and everyone is welcome. Call 01905 855227 for more information.