A WALKING group in Horrabridge are putting their best foot forward every week to strengthen their bond of friendship and benefit from the positive effect it brings to physical and mental health.

The walking friendship group was initiated by Horrabridge resident Jo Robinson who moved to the village in February 2020, not knowing anyone locally at the time.

Reaching out to Methodist pioneer and community outreach worker Ali Mansfield, who is renowned for her work in the local community, the two ladies worked in tandem to get a walking friendship group up and running.

Ali suggested that Jo be the group leader as she enjoys walking every day with her dog Pippin. They connected with fellow residents in the village to see who would like to join them. The group had formed by the autumn of 2020, however, changing covid regulations and lockdowns rendered their walks sporadic. Now restrictions have finally ceased, the group are back out in full swing and enjoying every step.

Jo said: ‘It’s a really lovely friendly group, we talk about all sorts, any issues we may have, regarding relationships, families and finances. Sometimes some of us have more knowledge and know certain contacts that can help with various matters.

‘Whatever we discuss stays in the group, so we have formed great trust within each other. When it’s such a lovely day, getting out for that hour’s walk can really boost your mood and it’s great for your mental health. Being able to experience it with other people make it more enjoyable.’

The group meet every Thursday morning at 9am for a 9.15am start at the St John’s lay-by and utilise many different routes in the idyllic Dartmoor surroundings such as Drake’s Trail, the moors and around Yelverton. They walk in all weathers and seasons; rain and mud are no deterrent.

Sue McDowell of the group said: ‘It’s a very relaxed and friendly group. Each week is different as we never know what wildlife we will see — alpaca, dogs, birds, you name it! We chat to walkers, runners, bike riders and we always feel energised and uplifted by the experience. We usually have a good giggle along the way.’