A NEW walking craze is set to hit Alcester with a workshop at The Greig tomorrow.

Residents will have the chance to enjoy a taster workshop in Nordic walking -- an exercise involving walking with poles which originated as an off-season training method for cross-country skiers in Finland.

Nordic walking can help with weight loss and improve cardiovascular fitness, mobility and posture.

It can also help participants to socialise and get out in the fresh air and can burn 20 per cent more calories than normal walking at the same speed.

The workshop will be led by Janine Pemberton, who launched Nordic Walking Central after seeing the sport take off in Europe and other areas of the UK.

She said it was an activity for all and was excited about the health benefits it could bring.

"It's an activity you can enjoy by yourself or with friends and family out in the fresh air," she said.

"I urge anyone with an interest to book on to a taster session and find out what Nordic walking can do for them."

The Greig's centre director Stacy Robinson added: "As a community leisure and recreation facility, we have a responsibility to put healthy living on our community agenda.

"Not everyone likes using the gym so we are pleased to help Janine and her Nordic walking initiative outreach to those who may not otherwise exercise, or simply want to try something a bit different."

The taster workshop costs £15 and workshop numbers are limited to six so participants receive personal tuition in a friendly group. Personal tuition and day courses are also available on request.

To find out more or to book a place, visit the website www.nordicwalkingcentral.com or call 07855 955462.