A SPORTS science student has been appointed as walking project co-ordinator for a health initiative.

Duncan Gomes, a student at New College, Durham, has been working voluntarily for the community organisation Chance since September and recently completed his Basic Expedition Leader's Award.

Now he has been chosen to co-ordinate the Sunderland branch of the Walking Your Way to Health initiative, a national scheme to encourage people to walk more.

It has been made possible by funding from the Countryside Agency and Chance, which works closely with the Hendon and East End of Sunderland New Deal for Communities partnership, Back on the Map.

Despite being only weeks into his post, Mr Gomes has organised five walks for June alone.

He said: "I would like to encourage as many people as possible from the local community to get involved in these walks.

"Although they are a great way of helping people to stay fit, the idea is for people to enjoy themselves and have an opportunity to socialise."

For more details on the Walking your Way to Health initiative, ring Pat Knightly on 0191-567 0978.