An East Renfrewshire walking group, which has grown in size over the past 20 years, has picked up a prestigious award.
The Rouken Glen Walkers came into being 20 years ago with just one volunteer leading 12 walkers.
Now, there are 200 people registered as walkers with around 120 people turning out regularly to take part. They are looked after by 14 trained volunteer Walk Leaders who manage three walks every Wednesday around the park.
And on Tuesday, the group was recognised as Health Walk Group of the Year by Scotland’s walking charity, Paths for All, at its annual Volunteer Awards at the Scottish Parliament.
Ken Dougan, who has been a Walk Leader with the group since it began said: “It’s a very social club and through word of mouth it has continued to grow over the years.
“Someone tells a friend, and they bring their friends and new social groups start to form.
“I was first approached about joining the group when I was at a fitness class after taking early retirement. At that time, it was just me and nine ladies.
“Because it has mushroomed in size over the years, the walks are now split into three so we can also cater for different abilities.
“It’s marvellous to have been involved with the Rouken Glen Walkers; I’ve loved every moment.
“It’s very nice to win the award, and I’m sure all the walkers will be delighted when they hear about it.”
The Rouken Glen Walkers is supported by Health Walk project Walk ER which receives support from Paths for All and is managed by East Renfrewshire Council through the local health and social care partnership.
Ken added: “Walking groups on the whole have really taken off. Everywhere I go, I talk to people about walking, and tell those looking for a walking group to contact their local council or Paths for All.”
Joe FitzPatrick, Minister for Public Health, Sport and Wellbeing, who presented the awards to all 12 winners last week said: “Increasing physical activity across Scotland is a top priority, and thanks to the hard work of these volunteers, many more people are now leading a healthier lifestyle.
“It has been truly heart-warming to learn about how they have all had such a positive impact on their local communities.”
Ian Findlay CBE, Chief Officer at Paths for All, said: “Getting outside and going for a walk is so valuable for our own personal health and for the health of our planet, so it’s very important to take the time to thank volunteers like those involved with the Rouken Glen Walkers, whose selfless efforts are making a huge difference to the lives of others around her.
“It’s inspiring to think that, collectively, these volunteers who are invested in making walking a bigger part of daily life are helping to incite important behavioural change.”
Paths for All works with the Scottish Government and 30 partners to support and deliver national policies, such as the National Walking Strategy and other ‘active travel’ initiative.
The charity awards thousands of pounds worth of grants to worthwhile projects that improve health, promote walking and improve environments for people to be active in.
To find out more about Health Walks in the area, visit www.pathsforall.org.uk/healthwalkfinder.