A WALKING group designed to help people who would benefit from moderate exercise are to receive training in dementia to encourage more people with the condition to join.

Walk leaders with Hambleton Strollers, who stage health walks in towns throughout the district, are to become Dementia Friends.

Dementia Friends receive training in what it’s like to live with dementia and actions that can make a difference to people living with the condition.

Paul Fisher, walks coordinator, said the move should also encourage more people to join their local group.

Hambleton Stroller's 12 volunteer walk leaders also recently received first aid training from Heartstart in Thirsk.

The group stages weekly walks in Northallerton, Bedale, Thirsk, Stokesley, Great Ayton and Easingwold, with details available from libraries, doctors’ surgeries and tourist information centres in Hambleton, or online at; www.walkingforhealth.org.uk.

Paul Fisher said: “Everyone is welcome.

“The walkers are friendly and we aim to help people who would not normally walk with a walking group. They last around an hour, with shorter options available, over flat ground with trained leaders to support those taking part.”

For more information contact Paul Fisher on 01609-771624.

Hambleton Strollers group was recently a runner-up in the Hambleton Voluntary Group of the Year awards.