WEYMOUTH residents have been getting back into shape thanks to the return of 'health walks' to the town.

Weymouth Town Council said it was pleased to announce that local health walks are back again, with residents getting involved in groups of up to six people.

The first health walk since before lockdown took place on Thursday, September 10. Participants enjoyed a leisurely stroll through Radipole Park and Gardens and everyone was happy to wear a mask to make sure that they were protecting themselves and each other amid the coronavirus pandemic. Four separate groups took part on reopening day, with each group led by a qualified walk leader. As well as the leader, a maximum of five walkers can take part to keep in line with the new “rule of six” Covid-19 regulations.

A Weymouth Town Council spokesperson said: "Many of the attendees said that this was their first walk since before lockdown and commented they had not realised how much they had missed walking."

Jane Biscombe, Town Clerk of Weymouth Town Council, said: “Maximising the safety of our walkers is our top priority and we are very lucky to be able to use local parks and open spaces for our walks. This ensures that social distancing can be maintained, whilst giving our walkers the opportunity to renew old friendships.”

Cllr Gill Taylor, Weymouth Town Councillor, said: “We have resumed our walks this month and although it feels different because of social distancing and the limit on numbers, it is lovely to be able to see our regular walkers, some of whom had not met up with other people for 17 weeks.

“We want to support our community by getting people out and about together in a safe manner – this was highlighted as a great need whilst we were delivering the Keep in Touch project.”

Walkers must book in advance and must not attend if they or anyone in their household is displaying symptoms of Covid-19. To book your place, please contact the bookings manager between 9am and 1pm weekdays by phoning 01305 239314 or emailing healthwalks@weymouthtowncouncil.gov.uk.

Please book your place by noon the Wednesday prior to the walk.