KEEN walkers can soak up some of the sights and sounds of the Teme Valley at a special walking festival.

People are being encouraged to sign up to the Tenbury Wells and Teme Valley walking weekend where ramblers can enjoy one of the six guided walks which are being organised.

The event, taking place on Saturday, October 18, and Sunday, October 19, will allow enthusiastic ramblers the chance to take in the orchards, woods and picturesque farmland, as well as exploring the attractions of Tenbury – which Queen Victoria called “my little town in the orchard”.

Vicky Powell, the county council’s countryside access development officer, said: “The walking festival takes place every year and is always hugely popular.

“The Teme Valley is a spectacular corner of Worcestershire and people have a chance to experience it during what will be a very enjoyable weekend.”

There are six individually themed guided walks that people can undertake. All the walks are free but there are limited spaces on them so booking is essential.

Coinciding with the walking weekend is the Tenbury Apple Fest on Saturday, October 18.

More than 200 varieties of fruit will be on display together with street entertainers, a music stage with live performances, an arts market and a film festival.

The weekend has been organised in partnership with the Worcestershire County Council’s countryside service and Malvern Hills District Council with support from Wycheway Country Walks.

Anyone who wants more information and to book a place on the walks can contact Tenbury Tourist Information Centre on 01584 810136, visit the countryside services website at worcestershire.gov.uk or e-mail enquiries@ tenburywells.info.