A WALKING group has encouraged people to get outside and go on a ramble over the festive period.

Swindon and Northeast Wiltshire Ramblers has organised a series of walks to tackle loneliness often experienced by people at Christmas.

On Boxing Day the group will be passing through Oare on a seven mile walk before enjoying a picnic lunch.

Dawn Burt of the walking group said: “Christmas can be a lonely and isolated time for some people and it would be lovely to feel they could join us. What starts out as a one-off Christmas or New Year walk could lead to life-long friendships and a serious walking habit.

“Walking improves both mental and physical health. One of our walkers had an accident and was told he would never walk again but through his determination and joining our group he now regularly walks 4 miles.

"Another walker used to sit indoors not talking or seeing anyone for days, joined our group and she now walks every week and joins in social events making new friends.”

Rambles are taking place from December 23 to January 6 and include trips to Quidhampton Wood & Basset Down, West Wick and Wroughton. Visit http://www.ramblers.org.uk/ for details.