PIPING hot coffee and good conversation were the perfect way to end a brisk winter's walk around Bromsgrove's Sanders Park on Monday.

Energetic townsfolk were all smiles in the park's cosy pavilion, enjoying a few minutes rest after completing a three-mile walk as part of Bromsgrove's Walks for Health programme.

The scheme was set up a year ago to encourage residents to join in any of three weekly walks across the district. Now each session regularly attracts between 15 and 20 walkers.

The main aim of the programme is to introduce people to exercise, although many people also benefit from the friendships forged with other walkers.

Walks are organised by programme co-ordinator Steve Barlow, in conjunction with the district council, and he is delighted with their growing popularity.

"People seem to really enjoy the walks. Some doctors are now suggesting people come along as a way of improving their fitness, which is great," he said.

Walks take place in Sanders Park, Dodford and on the Waseley Hills, as well as Bromsgrove and Rubery town centres. They vary in length and difficulty.

There are also monthly fitwalk sessions held on the track of the Ryland Centre, in New Road, where walkers can monitor their progress more easily.

The Advertiser/Messenger met with some of the walkers, including sisters Jackie Allen and Pat Best, who walk every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Jackie, who suffers from high blood pressure, said she was introduced to the walks by a friend last March and has been involved ever since.

"The walks are really lovely and we all have such a good time together. They often end like this, with a hot cup of coffee and a chat," she said.

Sister Pat added: "Jackie introduced me to the walks, when I retired in July and now I come along every week." They both agreed they feel much healthier thanks to the exercise.

Friedil Radocaj, who lives on her own, said she joined the programme to meet new friends. She was crowned a 'super-fit' member of the scheme.

Charford man John Crane, who had been with the scheme since the start, said: "I really enjoy keeping fit and meeting new faces.".

The scheme relies on enthusiastic volunteers, like Muriel Ewen and Jean Deakin, to lead the walks. Muriel became a leader in November after enjoying herself so much as a walker. She went on a daylong course in Stafford where she learnt all about the safety aspect of walking and is now an accredited leader.

For further details on the Walks for Health programme called Steve on 01527 832148 or visit www.bromsgrove.gov.uk