HUNDREDS of walkers across Herefordshire and beyond stepped up to the ‘Walk this May Challenge’ by completing over 4,700 miles.

A huge celebration of community spirit, movement, and wellbeing, the challenge was organised by local Wellbeing Walks groups in Herefordshire, Worcestershire Health Walks and the team from Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

The response was overwhelming, with walkers of all ages and backgrounds taking part and smashing expectations.

The two-week event, which ran from Monday, May 12, brought people together in their communities, encouraged healthy habits, and got hundreds moving in the great outdoors.

Free walks took place across both counties on easy ground and at a relaxed pace making them suitable for all abilities. Ranging from 10 to 90 minutes, the walks were accessible by foot or public transport and offered the perfect way to get active and socialise.

Stephen Brewster, chief executive of Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire, praised the achievement and said: "We’re absolutely delighted with how many people took part in this year’s challenge. Whether it was someone’s first walk or their hundredth, every step counted. This has shown us how powerful walking can be for both health and connection."

Zoe Clifford, director of public health for Herefordshire Council, said: "We’ve seen a fantastic response from people across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. It’s not just about the kilometres walked – it’s about the enjoyment of walking and the new friendships formed along the way. We’re so proud of everyone who took part."

None of this would have been possible without the incredible efforts of the volunteers, the dedicated Health Walk leaders and Wellbeing Walk leaders who lead walks all year and made the challenge such a success.

If you missed the challenge but want to keep the momentum going, it’s not too late to join your local walking group, visit the ramblers wellbeing walks Herefordshire website.