Chairman’s tribute to volunteer walk leaders

Community, Health and Social Care, Physical Activities
A group of Simply Walk leaders arrive for their 13th anniversary picnic Bill Chapple, with mascot bear and celebration cake, thanks Simply Walk volunteer leaders Chairman Bill Chapple thanks Simply Walk volunteer leaders at their 13th anniversary picnic

Volunteer leaders of Buckinghamshire’s Simply Walk programme got a big civic ‘thank you’ from County Council Chairman Bill Chapple OBE, when they celebrated their 13th anniversary.

Bill was guest of honour when 62 leaders met on Friday (July 17) in the orchard of Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe, for their annual picnic. Guests had a choice of walks in the Manor grounds and woods, and returned to a celebration cake.

The Chairman paid tribute to the dedication and enthusiasm of Simply Walk’s 200 volunteer leaders, who give a total of 12,896 hours a yearto the County Council’s health walk scheme.

‘Helping people in these walking groups gives them enjoyment, companionship, and aids their fitness,’ he said. ‘It not only allows them to enjoy the walk, but also to share other interests they have or have had, which keeps them youthful in spirit.

‘Well done to the organisers, volunteers and participants. Keep it up for another 13 years!”

The event was hosted by Hughenden Manor, for the fifth year running.

Simply Walk has more than 60 walks, attracting nearly 500 walkers every week across Buckinghamshire. Information: www.buckscc.gov.uk/simplywalk