A SERIES of summer walks have been organised to help people lose weight and feel good while exploring villages in Derwentside.

Derwentside Doorsteps, now in its final year, aims to encourage individuals and groups to take up walking as a way to become fitter.

The walks are no longer than three miles and are suitable for all ages and abilities.

The first walk will be along the Lanchester Valley Walk from Lanchester surgery, at 10am, on May 8.

A leaflet detailing walk dates and venues will be available in doctors' surgeries, libraries, leisure centres or from the Groundwork office at Craghead Village Hall.

Project officer Stephen McDonald said: "If you are an individual come along to the organised walks, however, if you like to run a series of walks for your group then please get in touch."

The project is part of the Walking the Way to Health Initiative, which aims to get more people walking. It is spearheaded by the Countyside Agency and the British Heart Foundation and benefits from cash from the New Opportunities Fund and sponsorship from Kia cars.

Paul Carter, of Kia Motors, said: "We believe that while cars are an essential part of our culture, we must all be responsible in how we use them.

"Walking is the easy and sensible alternative for getting around the local area."

For details contact (01207) 693202.