WALKERS are being encouraged to take part in an event for older people.

The International Day of Older Persons is being celebrated on Saturday, with a series of walks across the world.

Last year, during the International Year of Older Persons, people in Darlington were involved in a Golden Embrace, part of an initiative to promote walking as a way of keeping fit.

On Saturday, they will be encouraged to join one of three walks, leaving the Town Hall at 10am. All the walks return to Darlington's Age Concern offices, at Bradbury House, Beaumont Street, for refreshments at 11.30am.

The walks vary from one-and-a-quarter miles to two-and-a-half miles.

Darlington Borough Council, Age Concern, the Darlington Primary Care Group and the University of the Third Age have organised the events. Maps and first aid will be available.

All age groups are welcome to take part, and entrants will receive a signed certificate