COME rain or shine, Holsworthy Walk and Talk enjoyed some enjoyable walks last month.

The bluebells at Meldon Reservoir were not quite as prolific as they can be but were beautiful and aromatic none the less. The Meldon Level 3 walk took us past David Arney’s memorial bench which is in good repair. Several walkers availed themselves of the opportunity for a breather after a bit of a climb and it gave time for reflection on David’s legacy.

David started Holsworthy Walk and Talk in 2000 and strongly believed in the ethos of walking being accessible to all and was passionate about promoting the physical and psychological benefits to be gained. A recent comment by a North Devon GP endorsed David’s passion when he said: “Simply being in the natural environment is clinically proven to improve your health and wellbeing. It is not a pill or potion but consider connecting with nature as a prescription. One that works and costs nothing. It is so easy to do, just take that step outside to start with.”

Government guidelines are now allowing walks of up to 30 people in a group. Holsworthy Walk and Talk’s new programme has Level 2 and Level 3 walks each week but from different locations. By splitting the levels, group sizes should be considerably less than 30, but those who wish to attend should check before leaving home that they are heading to the correct walk.

At last the group are able to offer the Monday Walk in the Park again from June 21. This walk meets at 10.30am outside Holsworthy Area Sports Pavilion in Stanhope Park. This walk is for people who feel that a gentle stroll is more within their capabilities at this time and you will be rewarded with tea/coffee, biscuits and good company in the pavilion afterwards.

All walks start at 10.30am and are free. Membership forms will be available from the volunteer walk leaders prior to the start of the walk.

Further information is available from [email protected] or by calling Gillian Aston on 01409 254642, Mike Jackson on 01409 261196 or Paul Davies on 01409 253250.