Health bosses hope to make Walk4Life an annual event

Hartlepool Borough Council and Durham County Council teamed up to organise Walk4Life through Coast and Country to promote the health benefits of walking and the local stretch of England’s new national coastal path, which in our region follows the Durham Heritage Coast.

The event saw walkers from Hartlepool setting off from the Headland Promenade and Durham’s walkers starting from Blackhall Rocks, before both groups met up at Crimdon Dene for a picnic.

The walk was supported by the Ceremonial Mayor of Hartlepool, Councillor Stephen Akers-Belcher and Councillor John Robinson, the Chairman of Durham County Council.

Walk4Life is part of the Public Health England Change4Life campaign, which both Hartlepool Borough Council and Durham County Council support.

It was set up to encourage families and adults to eat well, move more and live longer, by making small lifestyle changes that add up to big health benefits.

Louise Wallace, director of public health at Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “It was a beautiful walk along the coast and we hope we can make this an annual event.

“Walking burns calories, is good for bones and muscles and can also make people feel good.”

Anna Lynch, director of public health for County Durham, added: “I’m delighted people were able to join together to enjoy the Durham and Hartlepool section of the England Coast Path.”

People can ring 01429 284414 for information on walks in Hartlepool.