The sun shone on 15 years of Tamar Valley walking at Kit Hill anniversary walk
Around 30 walkers enjoyed a 2-hour sunny stroll around Kit Hill last week, as they celebrated 15 years since the first Tamar Valley ‘Walking for Health’ walk took place.
Join in with our FREE walks
In July 2009, a small group set off on the very first walk in the Tamar Valley designed to offer gentle exercise and company for people who were recovering from illness or an operation, or just wanted to keep fit at a steady pace. The group was supported by Tamar Valley AONB (now National Landscape), Cornwall NHS and Natural England.
Fast forward 15 years, and Tamar Valley National Landscape now offers well-supported and much-loved walking groups three times a week.
Dave Readman (Walks Coordinator for Tamar Valley AONB from 2009-2013) and Dave Olver (walker, and now walk leader) remember that first walk; “There was definitely a need for this kind of walking group. Social isolation was recognised within parts of the Tamar Valley, and the NHS advised regular and gentle outdoor exercise for people who were recovering from certain conditions or looking to prevent some illnesses.
They continue; “The walks were – and continue to be – free of charge, with no commitment to sign up or book in advance. The simplicity of meeting at the start point each week and walking at your own pace without judgement is very freeing. Add to that a coffee or lunch stop with good conversation, and you’ve got the making of something that people very much feel a part of – and here we are 15 years on!”
Walkers on Kit Hill were treated to an air display by two soaring buzzards, panoramic views across the Tamar Valley, Dartmoor and beyond, and a well-earned lunch at nearby Louis Tea Rooms.
Valerie Darwall, Project Officer for Tamar Valley National Landscape, made a special carrot cake, topped with edible walking poles. Valerie says; “I’ve been involved with the walking groups for a number of years now, and I’ve seen the difference that these weekly walks make to so many people. We have such a beautiful landscape to explore, but not everyone has the confidence, desire or ability to head out on their own. There’s a real sense of community within our groups, and I am very grateful to our dedicated walk leaders and back markers who make these walks possible, in all weathers, every single week.”
If you would like to come along to a walk near you, the groups meet;
- Every Monday morning – Saltash Walk & Talk
- Every Wednesday morning – Tamar Valley Walk & Talk
- Every Thursday morning – Tamar & Bere Wellbeing Walks
Programmes change seasonally, with new walks added regularly.
