������Ƶ

Walk leaders from across Herefordshire and ������Ƶ came together at the end of National Walking Month to be recognised for their dedication and support.

Released as part of Love Parks Week (25 July to 3 August 2025), the video captures the energy, stories, and spirit of the celebration.

These walks often take place in local parks and green spaces, making Love Parks Week the perfect opportunity to showcase their impact.

Rob Darby said: “It's nice to know that you're part of something bigger and I did know that in my head but to find a room full like that, and all enthusiastic.”

More than 80 walk leaders from across the two counties came together at Worcester Cricket Club to share stories, catch up with each other, and celebrate the difference they make through their roles.

Walk leaders are volunteers, offering their time as part of Herefordshire Council’s Ramblers Wellbeing Walks scheme and ������Ƶ County Council’s Health Walks scheme.

The event highlighted the vital work these volunteers do to help people stay active, build connections and boost their wellbeing.

Lucy Lloyd, Walk Leader for The Hive Walkers, said: “I've got people over 90 people with walking sticks, I've got a lady who's non-verbal, I've got people who suffer with all sorts of problems. I've had people come up to me and say you've changed my life because I've moved, I've retired and I'm just at home and I don't meet anybody. So it's really nice when somebody says that. It’s amazing the characters you meet and the stories they’ve got to tell. Come and try it out. You don't have to stay. It doesn't cost you anything, you're not committed to anything. They're all very friendly and you'll soon keep coming regularly.”

Guest speakers included Stephen Brewster, CEO of Active Herefordshire and ������Ƶ, and Dr Lisa McNally, Director of Public Health for ������Ƶ County Council, who shared inspiring insights and data about the power of walking.

Speaking after the event, Stephen Brewster, CEO of Active Herefordshire and ������Ƶ said:

"It was such a privilege to come together to recognise our walk leaders and everything they do. Walking may seem like a simple activity, but the outcomes are powerful. It supports better physical health, builds stronger social connections, and creates a real sense of community. This celebration, along with the video we’ve produced, is a chance to say thank you and show just how much they matter."

Attendees also heard about the success of the #WalkThisMay Challenge, which saw walk leaders and participants cover an incredible 4,723.18 miles in just two weeks.

Councillor Satinder Bell, ������Ƶ County Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, added: "Walk leaders are changing lives in ways that often go unseen. They help people stay active, overcome loneliness and support their mental health. Their commitment and kindness are the foundation of our walking programme, and this event, and the video from the day, really show how valued they are."

The celebration also featured a scenic Health Walk along the River Severn, looping back to the Graeme Hick Pavilion.

Philippa Ellis, Talk Community Health and Wellbeing Manager at Herefordshire Council, said: "We were thrilled to host so many of our amazing walk leaders and to say a heartfelt thank you. Their work brings real positivity and connection into our communities. The video from the event is a brilliant way to celebrate everything they do and the joy they bring to so many people."

If you’d like to get involved or find out more about Health Walks or Wellbeing Walks – including opportunities to become a walk leader, visit:

• ������Ƶ Health Walks

Please see the video below, or alternatively please visit our Health Walks website, and look under the Become a Health Walk Leader tab.