Retired Worcestershire couple Bob and Lucy Lloyd are key organisers of weekly health walks, a role maintained since their 2017 training.

Dedicated to fitness and community bonding, the Lloyds voluntarily oversee two weekly walks, regardless of it being National Walking Month in May or otherwise.

Their journey began when they sought active retirement participation, opting to volunteer with Worcestershire Health Walks from The Commandery at first, then joining The Hive Walkers from the library at Worcester City.

The walks, free and accessible to all, vary in duration from 20 minutes to 90 minutes, traversing manageable terrains typically accessible by foot or local public transport.

The initiative not only promotes physical fitness but also supports mental wellbeing by fostering social interaction among participants.

Bob and Lucy said: "We run a lovely, ever expanding, group of walkers, or who they now call friends who walk, split into two groups, both for an hour, but one for those who want an easier walk. At the end of the walks, we return to the city centre for coffee, and maybe cake too! This results in even more socialising and making friends.

"We have found it is very rewarding especially when you see people who attend on their own and soon make good friends, as have we. For some they describe it as the highlight of their week. We feel the social and mental benefits are just as important as those of walking, if not more.

"It can be challenging at times and is a commitment. However, when we need a break we have a group of walk leaders we can turn to, to cover our walk. We firmly believe in the benefits of Health Walks, no cost, no planning, no need to book, just turn up and enjoy the company of likeminded people."

Councillor David Ross, cabinet member for responsibility for health and well-being, said: "Bob and Lucy’s Health Walk journey is a really positive one, and I’m really pleased to see how much they have benefitted both physically and mentally from being Health Walk leaders."