SOUTH SOMERSET NEWS: Mums and toddlers enjoy new buggy walk group

VOLUNTEERS have come together to start a brand new “buggy walk” from a local primary school in a bid to get mums and toddlers more active.

The “buggy walk” sessions in Ilchester got up and running thanks to support from South Somerset District Council, Ilchester Parish Council, Ilchester Primary School and Somerset County Council has given the volunteers the helping hand they need to get the sessions up and running.

Cllr John Bailey, of Somerset County Council, said: “The aim of the buggy walk is to provide an activity led support group for young families in the area whilst reducing car travel to school.

“Not only will these walks encourage parents to walk with their children they also get the opportunity to meet other parents too. I am pleased that the County Health and Wellbeing fund is able to support this excellent community project.”

PHOTO – TOP: Pictured (from right to left) are Cllr John Bailey of Somerset County Council, Ilchester Primary School headteacher Nick Heath, Ilchester Parish Council chairman Cllr Nick Knudsen, walk leader Jenny Babb, Ilchester Parish Council’s Julie Stapleton, Charlie McCann, and  and South Somerset District Council’s Charlie Coward.

The district council’s healthy lifestyles team is supporting the walk by offering volunteers free training and support.

Healthy lifestyles officer Charlie Coward said: “Our health walk leader training is ideal for anyone who wants to lead health walks or buggy walks and make a difference in their community.

“Volunteers don’t need any prior experience and they will learn everything they need to know to set up a successful walk including; risk assessments, routing walks, and accident reporting.”

The Ilchester buggy walk takes place every Friday from Ilchester Primary School Reception at 9.15am. Walks are led by volunteer Jenny Babb and anyone with a buggy or toddler can just turn up and join in.

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