AN organised stroll to Piel Island this weekend is set to kick start the return of a weekly walking series and work towards a festival - all promoting the social and well-being benefits of country walks.

Walking guide John Murphy will lead people across the sands to Piel this Saturday, which is due to be the start of regular walking events and bringing back a walking festival for Furness.

Mr Murphy plans to offer walks for families, couples and individuals around Furness, combining information about local history and nature along the routes.

He wants to encourage people get out and enjoy the countryside and socialise, whether they are long time residents or newcomers to the area.

Mr Murphy said: "Many years ago I recognised that we live in a unique part of the country and our relative isolation ensures that we are different to many other areas. But where else can you stroll between castles, meander around a beautiful abbey and wander through some of the most beautiful villages in the country?

"We must not overlook our picturesque and glorious beaches and internationally important nature reserves, so the overused and false image of Barrow, is easily blasted away.

"I want to try and restart my weekly walks that were so popular and I hope reorganise the very

popular walking festival for Furness.

"Walking isn’t just about putting one aching foot in front of the other, it can be very social and an obviously healthy way of life. We are all aware that many of us just don’t get out into the

countryside often enough."

The guide says this is a good walk to start with because it is only a couple of miles each way with "no annoying stiles" or "energy absorbing hills".

The meeting point on Saturday is the King Alfred Hotel, on Walney, at 11am. There will be shared lifts given in a car convey to Snab Point. From 11.15am the walkers will head out from Snab Point to Piel.

The guide said the walkers will be able to learn about Piel Castle, the history of the island and the area and the wildlife, which include grey seals.

Mr Murphy said he loves the old concept of family picnics, so he is encouraging people to bring a bottle of water and a jam sandwich, or enjoy a meal in the Ship Inn.

People should also wear suitable footwear and bring a jacket.

More information about the walk is available from Mr Murphy on 07891006434.

Anyone crossing the sands to and from Piel at low tide should only do so with someone who knows the sands well, they should always check the tide times before setting out and beware of deep channels and soft sand.