EFFORTS will be taken to improve the public's health by training volunteer walk leaders.

One-day courses are organised over the next few months to give people the skills to take groups on walks and rambles round the countryside and places of interest.

County Durham Primary Care Trust is behind the sessions, as part of the Walking the Way to Health campaign in east Durham.

Volunteers will be given advice about leading groups, and the courses will cover the benefits of exercise, motivating people to become active and general health and safety tips.

It is hoped people will gain the skills, knowledge and experience to be able to take groups on walks in the Easington area.

The free courses are staged by the trust's Get Active Easington team.

They will take place from 9am to 4pm in the Glebe Centre, Murton, tomorrow, on Wednesday, July 18, and Wednesday, September 26.

Stewart Doyle, of the Get Active team, said: "We are aiming to encourage more local people to engage in healthier lifestyles by taking part in physical activities.

"Walking is one of the simplest and most beneficial activities people can participate in.

"It is a simple idea for people of all ages that can be fun and full of health benefits."

Mr Doyle said the health benefits of walking were enormous, and it enabled participants to meet people and see more of the community.

To become a walk leader, call 0191-569-2847.