WALKERS will step out tomorrow for a sponsored walk through Hamsterley Forest in an effort to improve the nation's health.
Not only will the exercise benefit the dozens of walkers completing one of two routes in the forest, but sponsorship from the event will go towards the British Heart Foundation.
One of the walk organisers is retired civil engineer Fred Shepheard, of Wolsingham, who started to walk regularly after a heart bypass operation nine years ago.
The 64-year-old said: "I realise now I worked too hard, didn't eat properly, or take enough exercise.
"As rehabilitation after the bypass I started exercise and really enjoyed it, now I enjoy walking regularly.
"I also wanted to do something for the British Heart Foundation to help more people benefit as I have done."
The Northern Echo teamed up with Wear Valley District Council, Durham Dales Primary Care Trust and Northumbrian Water to launch a campaign called a Chance to Live. It aims to improve the well-being of people by promoting the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.
Anyone can join the walk, which starts from the main car park at 2pm, and follows two routes, either two-and-half or four-and-a-half miles.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article