Festival targets big response
Organisers of the new Black Country walking festival are hoping to attract healthy numbers to this year's event. Organisers of the new Black Country walking festival are hoping to attract healthy numbers to this year's event. The Dudley Walking Festival will be held from April 28 until May 6 and people of all ages are invited to take a stroll. There will be guided walks organised by staff at Himley Hall around many of Dudley's beauty spots. They include Himley Park and morning and evening walks in Saltwells Nature Reserve where visitors will be able to admire the carpet of bluebells. For early risers there will be a 4am start for a dawn chorus walk at Wrens Nest Nature and nature lovers can enjoy an evening bat walk. Read the full story in the Express & Star.
There will be guided walks organised by staff at Himley Hall around many of Dudley's beauty spots.
They include Himley Park and morning and evening walks in Saltwells Nature Reserve where visitors will be able to admire the carpet of bluebells. For early risers there will be a 4am start for a dawn chorus walk at Wrens Nest Nature and nature lovers can enjoy an evening bat walk.
New this year is a visit to the renowned nature reserve for those with mobility difficulties.
As well as walks there will also be talks from Himley Park's Senior Warden, Alan Peace, who will be telling tales about his mountaineering exploits.
Visitors will hear about uphill climbs of 5-7,000 metres all in the name of charity.
The festival finale is the 27th annual Dudley Trail, Dudley's famous walking event, comprising a series of walks ranging from the six to 26 miles.
Last year a record 2, 300 walkers took part in the trail.
Principal leisure officer at Dudley Council, Sally Piazzalunga, said: "Following well trodden historic paths and discovering unexplored walkways are an essential part of the Borough's Walking Festival.
"It's also exciting that the continued success of the Dudley Trail has inspired a whole week of fun walks and talks, aimed at raising the profile of walking.
"It is something which can be a family activity, a step towards a healthier and more active life and a great way to meet and make new friends."
For more information or an application form for the trail people can go into any leisure centre or library.
Alternatively they can telephone Himley Hall and Park on 01384 817817 or Dudley Council Plus on 01384 812345.
