KEEN walkers gathered for the first in a series of walks designed to encourage people to enjoy a healthier way of living.

The three-mile walk following the old railway line between Bishop Auckland and Brandon Way marked the first in a programme that will get people ready for this year's Great North Walk, organised by Wear Valley District Council.

Thousands of people are expected to take part in the Walk, which has been backed by The Northern Echo through its Chance to Live Campaign.

The health partnership between the council and the newspaper was launched at Bishop Auckland Town Hall by Health Secretary Alan Milburn.

Sunday saw a good turn out for the first of the walks, which offered a shorter one mile route for beginners.

Lynn Wilson, Walking for Health co-ordinator at the council, said that the programme had proved popular with walkers of all ages.

She said: "We will be increasing the distance every time to get people ready for the Great North Walk, which is ten miles.

"We are really lucky in the Wear Valley to have a lot of beautiful scenery and interesting old buildings.''

She was joined on Sunday by Alistair Wallace and Fred Quinliban who write books on mountaineering and walking.

Both men have helped map out the route of this year's Great North Walk, which sets off from Wolsingham on Sunday, July 13.

Anyone wishing to take part in any of the walks or who would like a programme of forthcoming events should contact Wear Valley District Council on (01388) 765555.