AT an informal ceremony in front of Ludlow Castle, 19-year-old Thomas Geuter received his certificate as a fully-qualified walk leader with the Breathe Walking for Health Project.

It was a special moment for two reasons.

Thomas is believed to be one of the youngest walk leaders in the country and he is also the first who suffers from Down's Syndrome.

"I wanted to become a walk leader and encourage people to walk," he said.

"I also want to raise awareness about people with Down's Syndrome and other people with learning difficulties."

Walks co-ordinator Jemma Willis, who handed Thomas his certificate, explained: "Thomas particularly enjoys the walks because of the chance to meet new people and get to know them.

" He enjoys leading, finding new walks and understanding more about walking and health.

"Despite all that he is already doing, Thomas has plenty of plans for walking in the future. Regular walking is said to halve the chances of a heart attack.

There are four ways of joining in. Every Monday, at 5.15pm, there is a short amble around Ludlow and a gentle 45 to 60 minutes' walk on Wednesdays, at 11am. Both start from the castle.

On Tuesdays and Fridays there are 11am walks from the Secret Hills Discovery Centre in Craven Arms.

"Just turn up on the day and introduce yourself to one of the friendly walk leaders," Jemma advised