WALKING LEADER IS UP FOR A NATIONAL AWARD

By James Brice

A South Northants walk leader is up for a national volunteer award after being highly commended for his passion, enthusiasm and dedication to his role.

Roger Miles, who leads health walks in Helmdon, has been rewarded for his outstanding contribution to Walking for Health – a national scheme run by the Ramblers and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Having received the Ramblers’ highest commendation, Mr Miles was automatically shortlisted for a national volunteer award.  He said: "It’s such a pleasure to share the fine countryside around Helmdon with the lively company of enthusiastic walkers.

“There’s lots of chat and jokes too, especially while helping each other over stiles or through muddy gateways.  Thanks to Judy Cairns, our Thursday afternoon walks are invariably followed by a sociable tea, with cake.  In the summer our longer Monday summer evening walks always end with a pint at the pub.”

Locally the health walks are co-ordinated by South Northants Council (SNC).  Cllr Karen Cooper, SNC’s portfolio holder for community engagement and wellbeing, said: “Over seven years Roger has helped many people to enjoy a more active life and we thank him for his continued efforts.  We wish him all the best in the voting for this national award.”

Mr Miles is also the designated footpath warden for Helmdon Parish Council, is very active in maintaining and improving footpaths around the parish, organises working parties to clear overgrown paths, lobbies the local authority to repair or replace stiles, gates and bridges, negotiates permissive footpaths with landowners, and has produced a series of guides for longer walks.

The health walks which take place across the district are free to attend, no special equipment is required and there is no need to book, just turn up on the day.  Walkers should wear loose, comfortable clothing and footwear, such as boots, trainers or study flat shoes, all appropriate to the weather. To find a health walk near you call 01327 322337 or visit website

The Brackley & Towcester Advertiser – 02 September, 2016