A NEW walks programme will set people in the Sedgefield Borough on the right path to fitness and good health.

Because taking just a small amount of exercise every day can transform people's lives, local authorities and health trusts are sponsoring projects to help keep people away from their doctor's surgery.

A three-year Walking to Health scheme is already under way and is launching new routes around Spennymoor today. Backed by Spennymoor Town Council, Sedgefield Borough Council, the Sedgefield Primary Care Trust and the Countryside Agency, it offers maps and information packs on exercise, diet and countryside issues as well as comprehensive walk booklets.

An Open Day in the Bowls Pavilion at the Jubilee Park is from 10am to 1.30pm, with a short walk to the Cow Plantation Nature Reserve leaving at 10.45am. For fitter visitors, there is a longer alternative route to Tuhoe Village.

Health walks officer Jim Nutt is gradually devising a walks programme for communities throughout the borough.

An information pack is available from the borough council offices in Green Lane, Spennymoor.

Contact Mr Nutt and the rest of the borough's countryside team on (01388) 816166.