THE first ever Rossendale Rural Walking Festival takes place this weekend.

Walkers of all abilities are being encouraged to step out and take part in an event designed to explore the "rugged beauty" of the valley.

Taking place from this Friday to Sunday, it will feature a number of walks, all which start at Helmshore.

Ranging from gentle leisurely strolls, to high energy exploits, each walk will be led by an experienced guide.

Walks range from just two miles to 12 miles and include Family Farm Fun, Robin Hood's Well to Waughs Well and the Panopticon Halo Walk.

Wendy Davison, of Tippett Farm, who helped organise the event, said: "In Rossendale we really are spoilt by the rugged beauty of the Pennines together with the pretty mill towns on every corner.

"Visitors and residents can now appreciate the area by taking part in the Walking Festival, which we have co-ordinated as an introduction to the Valley's many trails and paths."

Deputy council leader William Challinor said: "The Rural Rossendale Walking Festival is just one of a number of events, which has been held in celebration of the area's stunning natural features and illustrious industrial past.

"We are hoping the festival will become an annual event incorporating the whole of the Valley."

Visitors to the area can also take advantage of a range of accommodation options throughout the weekend - go to http://www. ruralrossendale.co.uk/ to discover details on farmhouses, B&Bs and hotels.

For further information on the Rural Rossendale Walking Festival call 01706 825905 or email wendy.davison@btopenworld.com All walks must be pre-booked.