KEEN walkers are invited to take part in what is dubbed, ‘The Last New Year Party’, which includes an eight-mile trek and pub lunch.

Voluntary countryside ranger Bill Gallon leads the party of walkers over what is classed as a, ‘medium-long’ course, on Wednesday (January 9), from 10am.

It is expected to take up to six hours to complete over a mystery stretch of County Durham countryside, but is interspersed with a three-course pub lunch at a location yet to be identified.

There is an approximate £8 charge for the meal on top of the usual £4 walk fee.

Prior booking is essential, with the start details to be given to callers when they ring to confirm their places.

They should ring 0191-372 9100, during office hours, to make a booking.