A local resident is looking to share his love of walking as he volunteers within a North Tyneside leisure centre.
Carl Fordham, of Wallsend, has been a Contours member since 2010 and started attending Hadrian Leisure Centre’s scheduled led walks back in December 2015.
The walks invite residents who may not be as able to go to the gym or take part in intense physical activity and offers them a much more leisurely and informal platform to be active and work on their fitness.
They are led by members of staff from Hadrian Leisure Centre who organise and support the sessions.
While on one of Hadrian’s scheduled walks, it was suggested that Carl could become a volunteer lead walker, an opportunity that he jumped at.
He has now gone on to complete the lead walker training and is dedicated to attending Hadrian’s walks every Wednesday morning, regardless of the weather.
Delighted with his new training, Carl said: “The walks have so many benefits both from a health and social aspect. They allow you to meet new people and make new friends, as well as learning a lot about the history of the area as you walk.
“The training was all very well-structured, helpful and informative. I thought I knew all there was to walking but I still learned a few things and I really enjoyed it.
“I now feel a lot more confident when leading a walk group and I’m glad I have the opportunity to pass on the joys and benefits of walking to others.”
Anyone interested in finding out more about the walks or becoming a volunteer lead walker can get in touch with the centre on (0191) 643 2025.
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