A NEW group of walkers who meet in Ilminster every week are finding many more benefits than just getting moving.

The Health Walk in Ilminster began earlier this month and though in fledgling stage has enjoyed a positive start.

Professionally trained walk volunteers took a group of 32 walkers out on the first ses¬sion and group leader Elaine Labrom is hoping the mid-week yomp will become a staple in many local residents' schedule.

Approached by Summervale Medical Centre and South Somerset District Council, Elaine has taken on the role to get it off the ground, having an already well-established walking group in Broadway.

She told The News: “In the first week we had 32 walkers and six volunteer leaders, which was a fantastic result.

“I have had a lot of calls from people who couldn't make it but would like to and it has been great.

“We had a lot of people who enjoyed it and couldn't believe it at the end when we told them they had walked two miles.

“A big aspect of it as well is the social side, which I want to encourage because, although people often come along with a friend, I try to get them to talk to each other and it's a big factor in encouraging people to come back.

“The idea is generally to improve overall health and well-being, whether it is physical, emotional or mental - walking is one of the simplest things you can do to feel better in every sense.”

The walking group is intended to take simpler routes for those just getting into walking or recovering from injury or people who just want to get moving.

They set off every Thursday rain or shine at 2.30pm from Summervale Medical Centre.

For more information, call Elaine on 01460 55849 or 07900424157.