REDDITCH Council has joined forces with Redditch Primary Care Trust to encourage residents to walk their way to fitness in 2005 by joining a new scheme.

Health walks will take place every Monday from Arrow Valley Countryside Centre at 11am and are aimed at those who want to take exercise, enjoy the countryside and meet new people.

Each week will feature a slightly different course but will include a lap around Arrow Valley Lake and will be between one and two miles long, taking about an hour to complete.

The walks are set at quite a brisk pace but people can set their own pace as walk leaders will cover the front and back of the group.

Liz Stuffins, the council's visitor attractions manager, said: "We're looking for more volunteers to help with the walks and they will be given training, guidance and support."

For more details, call the countryside centre on 464000.