Organise a community walk and you could display Golden Boot

This is The Golden Boot and you could see it in your town or village if the community gets involved in the Wealden Walk project.

Wealden Council is offering financial support towards organising community walks this spring and summer. It also has flyers and banners, children's stickers, certificates and high viz tabards for walk leaders.

The Golden Boot, the size of an average walking boot, can be displayed in towns and villages taking part and will be passed from one to another as events are held.

Cllr Pam Doodes, cabinet member for community at the council said: "We are encouraging groups in every Wealden parish to organise a regular community walk."

So far six villages and towns have taken part but the council hopes to involve all 42 local communities by 2012, the year of the Olympic Games.

"The walks should be short and easy enough to appeal to young families, older people or those unable to walk too far," said Cllr Doodes.

"The aim is to discover the local area and promote the health benefits of walking, as well as providing the opportunity for local organisations to encourage more community involvement," she added.

Last year's walks involved a variety of themes including discovering woodlands, local history, mental well being and children's activities. Nearly 200 people took part.

Communities which have taken part so far are Uckfield, Crowborough, Frant, Buxted, Pevensey and Polegate. Primary schools are among those expressing an interest this year.

If you would like to learn more please contact the Wealden District Council community development team on 01892 602879 or email culturalservices@wealden.gov.uk.