ARROW Valley Health Walkers celebrated Christmas early by finishing their weekly walk with a festive meal.

The group met at Arrow Valley Park on Monday for their weekly walk which ended with a meal at the Golden Goose pub.

The celebration comes ahead of the 30th anniversary of the annual Festival of Winter Walks which is supported by the People's Postcode Lottery and runs from December 23 until January 7.

During the festival, Arrow Valley Health Walkers will be encouraging more people to join them on their walks as well as inspiring more volunteers to become walk leaders.

Anyone interested in becoming a walk leader can take part in a short training day in January.

Councillor Pat Witherspoon, whose portfolio covers leisure and cultural Services, said: "If you feel like you're in danger of overindulging over the Christmas period then Walks for Health is a great way to kick start the New Year.

"It's gentle, fun and social and the Festival of Winter Walks offers an easy way to head out for a winter wander with friends and family."

Arrow Valley Health Walkers take part in free walks which leave from the park's visitor centre each Monday morning at 11am.

The walks are run by volunteers with support from Redditch Borough Council and promote substantial health benefits as well as being very social, with the option of being able to stop for a cup of tea in the café afterwards.

As well as providing a gentle introduction to exercise, the health walks are designed to give people the confidence to take up other walking opportunities and promote a generally healthier lifestyle.

Val Wilson, coordinator at Redditch Borough Council, said: "The cold crisp days of winter are a magical time to go walking. It's a great way to escape the demands of the festive season too so why not join us for our next walk. Who knows, what starts out as a one-off walk could lead to life-long friendships and a serious walking habit."

For more information, call 01527 534030.