A FIRM that has quality of life at the heart of its foundation is supporting a walking festival this autumn.

Computer software company thecitysecret is sponsoring a number of walks as part of the Richmond Walking Festival, from September 23 to October 2.

The company, which designs bespoke software for investment banks, was set up in the market town four years ago by director Martin Worner.

He wanted to opt out of city life and believed that work usually associated with busy commercial centres could just as easily be carried out in more rural locations.

The company, based in Dundas Street, has gone from strength to strength and now employs 17 staff.

Many of the employees have also rejected bright lights and high salaries in exchange for somewhere pleasant to live.

"We have become one of the festival's sponsors because we wanted to give something back to the area where we live and work," said Mr Worner.

"Many of us moved here because we enjoy outdoor pursuits, such as walking, and we really value the beautiful countryside and lifestyle it offers."

The company is sponsoring a series of six walks.

The routes will cater for walkers of all ages and abilities and take in a variety of scenery around Richmond and the Dales. These will include a tour of historic Richmond, a river walk to Easby Abbey and a circular woodland and hill walk in Swaledale.

"One of the events we are sponsoring is a farm walk at Hudswell," said Mr Worner. "The farmer will be explaining how he manages the landscape for the enjoyment of others, and also how he cares for his 1,300 sheep."

As well as walking, the festival will offer live music, ceilidhs, talks, films, slide shows and wine tastings. For further information, contact Richmond tourist information centre on (01748) 850252.