Council urges people to ‘Walk this May’

Cheshire East Council is urging everyone to walk more this May – to boost health and the environment

It’s national walking month in May, and people are being encouraged to try to walk for 20 minutes each day. The campaign, titled ‘Take to your feet’, is being promoted via the hashtag #Try20. 

Cheshire East director of public health Matt Tyrer said: “Walking is an easy and accessible way to improve both physical and mental health. Taking a 20-minute walk can reduce the risk of a number of preventable health conditions, including certain cancers, depression, heart disease and type two diabetes.

“By swapping a short drive for a short walk, you can also help reduce air pollution, road congestion and our carbon footprint – while saving yourself some money and getting active in the process.”

Walk to school week also takes place during this month – from 16-20 May. More information and classroom packs are available online here.

Councillor Mick Warren, chair of Cheshire East Council’s environment and communities committee, said: “Walking is something almost all of us can do to improve our health and the environment – and it can save you money. 

“This is part of the council’s ambition to help improve the quality of life for everyone, by reducing car dependency and promoting healthy lifestyles.

“Making healthier choices and doing our bit to help improve air quality and tackle the climate change emergency is down to the actions of us all, as individuals and communities. Walking is good for us and it’s good for the environment. So, show the air you care – by walking.”

Go online here for tips, resources and check list designed to help you stick to the challenge of walking more in May, including #Try20 top tips.