NEWS RELEASES
Young walker leads the way
23 May 2008
A YOUNG volunteer with a local health walks scheme has become the youngest walk leader in the Horsham District.
Twelve year old Shawn from Storrington, first heard of the Health Walks scheme two years ago, and enjoyed his first walk so much that he has been on most weekend walks ever since.
Shawn has now become more involved with the walks, and with his parents’ permission, trained as a volunteer walk leader last autumn. In February 2008 he led his first walk, consisting of thirty people on a four mile circular route around Storrington.
Shawn is accompanied on all walks by a qualified adult walk leader.
Speaking of his achievement, Shawn said:
“I really enjoy the walks because I like looking at the trees, plants and rivers that I encounter and I love the South Downs.”
He added:
“I also like talking to the older walkers, some of them tell stories of the days when they were kids and of the jobs they have done.”
Cllr Brian Donnelly, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Health at Horsham District Council, said:
“Shawn’s progress within the Health Walks scheme is so good to see.
“He sets a great example to young and old alike.”
Jill Shuker, Health Walk Co-ordinator for Horsham District Council, said:
“We are really pleased that Shawn has made this commitment to the Health Walks scheme.
“He is so enthusiastic about walking and understands the benefits of regular activity very well.”
To view the April – June 2008 Health Walks schedule, please visit Horsham District Council’s website.
For more information about the Health Walks Scheme, please contact Horsham District Council on 01403 215269 or email community.development@horsham.gov.uk
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CONTACT: Richard Morris, Communications Manager
Email: richard.morris@horsham.gov.uk