Hundreds of walkers across Herefordshire and Worcestershire have stepped up to the challenge and walked over 4,700 miles during the ‘Walk this May Challenge’.
This works out at 7,600 kilometres, the equivalent of walking the 53-mile border between the two counties 89 times!
A huge celebration of community spirit, movement, and wellbeing, the challenge was organised by local Wellbeing Walks groups in Herefordshire, Worcestershire Health Walks and the team from Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
The response was overwhelming, with walkers of all ages and backgrounds taking part and smashing expectations.
The two-week event, which ran from Monday 12 May to Sunday 25 May, brought people together in their communities, encouraged healthy habits, and got hundreds moving in the great outdoors.
Free walks took place across both counties on easy ground and at a relaxed pace making them suitable for all abilities. Ranging from 10 to 90 minutes, the walks were accessible by foot or public transport and offered the perfect way to get active and socialise.
Stephen Brewster, CEO of Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire, praised the achievement:
We’re absolutely delighted with how many people took part in this year’s challenge. Whether it was someone’s first walk or their hundredth, every step counted – and the sense of community has been amazing. This has shown us how powerful walking can be for both health and connection.
Cllr Dr Satinder Bell, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Health and Community Support at Worcestershire County Council said:
Seeing so many people get involved has been truly inspiring. Walking is such a simple yet effective way to support both mental and physical health – and when we do it together, it’s even better. This challenge has brought fresh air, friendship, and fitness into people’s lives.
Zoe Clifford, Director of Public Health for Herefordshire Council, said:
We’ve seen a fantastic response from people across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. It’s not just about the kilometres walked – it’s about the enjoyment of walking and the new friendships formed along the way. We’re so proud of everyone who took part.
None of this would have been possible without the incredible efforts of the volunteers, the dedicated Health Walk leaders and Wellbeing Walk leaders who lead walks all year and made the challenge such a success. To show appreciation for their hard work and commitment, a special thank you event was held at Worcestershire County Cricket Club on Friday 30 May. Here volunteers were recognised for the vital role they play in supporting communities to get active.
If you missed the challenge but want to keep the momentum going, it’s not too late to join your local walking group. Walks take place every week in both counties and are free to join.
To find a Wellbeing Walk in Herefordshire, visit the Ramblers Wellbeing Walks, Herefordshire website.
For Health Walks in Worcestershire, go to the Health Walks page on the Worcestershire County Council website. You don’t need to book, just turn up.
The ‘Walk This May Challenge’ is a joint initiative by Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire, Herefordshire Council, and Worcestershire County Council as part of National Walking Month.