An ITV report click here has revealed that having studied 334,161 European men and women for 12 years, they have found that ‘people who took moderate levels of daily exercise, the equivalent of an energetic 20 minute walk, were 16% to 30% less likely to die than those classed as inactive’.

Many Walkers are Welcome towns run health walks which will introduce you to gentle exercise and will go at a pace to suit you on the road to improving fitness levels and overcoming health issues. There will also be social benefits in meeting new people and sharing a regular walk. Many extend this regular event and meet for refreshments afterwards.

So let’s get out there and make 2015 the year of the walks to improve your health and extend your life. Spread the word, walking is good for you.