BURNLEY Mayor Councillor Lilian Clark has stepped out to launch a new initiative aimed at encouraging people to walk their way to health.

The scheme aims to establish walking groups in all areas of the borough, which will be led by specially-trained volunteer walk leaders.

Several new short walk routes will be developed in and around Burnley and there will also be support for people who would prefer to walk alone.

Linda Searle, acting head of community and recreation services at Burnley Council, said they were looking for volunteers to train as walk leaders.

She said: "We are looking for keen walkers who can spare some time to take groups out walking around their community."

Once they have been trained, it is hoped that they will be available for at least one walk a week.

Volunteers will be supported by health walks co-ordinator Rachel Stansfield, and there will be monthly meetings for all walk leaders.