ARMCHAIR walking?

That's what every walker does with the aid of a map. But to enjoy it fully, it's usually necessary to have done the walk first.

Only then does the armchair re-run, or rather re-walk come to life.

But Hartlepool-based Ken Elliott seeks to cut out the often-tiring, sometimes (let's admit it) even tedious legwork. Where most walking guides devote most of their space to directions, with points of interest loosely tacked on, Ken describes his progress almost step by step.

Just three walks are offered here, but they are ambitious affairs - an exploration of the Esk Valley, an extensive wander in Farndale and a linear trek across the heart of the moors, from Ingleby Greenhow to Kirkbymoorside.

Ken knows his stuff and communicates his enthusiasm. Studding his text with far more than the usual scattering of photographs, he has produced virtually a video in book form - an intriguing reverse innovation.

As Ken himself says, its special appeal might be to "the many people who, for various reasons, cannot enjoy for themselves the wonders of the open moors".

That's a very nice thought. But active walkers too might find their armchair reprise enhanced.

* Printability Publishing,15 Moreland Close, Wolviston Village, TS24 7DJ, Tel: 01740- 644269; www.atkinsonprint.co.uk. No price stated.