WALKERS are being encouraged to put their best foot forward to mark 75 years of rambling.

Members of the Severnside Ramblers are taking part in a national celebration this weekend to mark 75 years of the Ramblers Association.

On Saturday morning local people will be pulling on their walking boots and trekking five miles through Tockington. The walk is part of a serious of Baton Walks, being organised nationally, whereby local rambling groups will carry a baton around the whole of the UK.

Heather Rickards, from the Severnside Ramblers, which has more than 100 members, said: "The Baton Walks have started in the South West and will take the baton right up to Scotland before coming back down to South East England by December.

"For an event like this we would love to see new faces join us and new members are always welcome."

The Ramblers Association, now known as Ramblers, was started in 1935 and during the last 75 years its members have campaigned to secure the country’s 150,000-mile rights of way network, which is enjoyed every year by thousands of enthusiastic walkers.

Tom Franklin, chief executive for the group, said: "For 75 years, the Ramblers has existed as Britain's walking charity, to help everyone, no matter who they are or where they're from, experience the joy of walking.

"Now we're asking everyone, of all ages and walking levels, to get out, celebrate walking and help us pass on the baton for future generations."

Severnside Ramblers hold walks every weekend, each a different length and in different locations but most including a café or pub stop.

"We are a friendly group and what our members enjoy is being able to get out in the fresh air, get some exercise and it is also an opportunity to appreciate the beautiful countryside we have around us.

"There is also the social aspect where people on their own can meet people and get out and about," said Mrs Rickards.

The Severnside Ramblers will be meeting for their walk Baton Walk at Aldi car park, Bradley Stoke, on Saturday, January 23 (9.30am). To find out where the walk starts call 0117 9334998.

For more information about Severnside Ramblers visit www.severnside-ramblers.org.uk