IT'S healthy, sociable and absolutely free – and it involves merely putting one foot in front of the other.
Up to 300 people each week have discovered the life-affirming – and sheer fun – benefits of East Surrey Walking for Health events.
Run by Merstham-based charity Action for Life, more than 20 walks take place each and every week.
They attract everyone from fighting fit octogenarians to mums with baby buggies.
Now the aim is to encourage more people to get out and walk more, particularly those who may be recovering from illnesses such as heart attack, stroke, diabetes or mental health problems.
Action for Life co-ordinator Julie Haslett said: "Our walks are very popular and have already helped to improve the health of many of our walkers.
"Some people who have joined walks, perhaps to help them recover from illness, have enjoyed them so much that they have stayed on as leaders.
"Not only does it enable participants to feel fit and healthy, but they can also make friends – and it's all absolutely free.
"However, we would like to spread the word and swell our numbers."
She said there is something on offer for everyone.
The programme ranges from a 1½-mile stroll in Reigate's Priory Park to a more adventurous six-mile walk in the Kent countryside.
And three new projects are in the offing, thanks to funding from Comic Relief and Surrey County Council's Travel Smart.
Those taking part in Explore Merstham – held on every second Tuesday – can get a voucher for a free hot drink in a local cafe.
A free minicab shuttle service will take walkers from central Merstham to the Nutfield Marsh nature walk, held on Mondays.
And a three-mile walk to be held each Saturday is being launched on April 5. It starts at 11am from Reigate Hill car park.
To find out more visit www.actionforlife.org.uk or e-mail actionforlife@aol.co.uk
