A GROUP formed to demonstrates the benefits of walking has celebrated a major milestone.

Heather Stanley, from Brompton, Northallerton, has become the 1,000th person to walk with the Hambleton Strollers since the group began in 2002.

The 52-year-old joined the Strollers to get back to full fitness after recovering from cancer.

"I joined the group who walk at Northallerton and found all the walkers very friendly and welcoming," she said.

"I have only lived in the area for two years and the walks have shown me parts of Northallerton I have never seen before."

She added: "I feel the walks are helping my recovery; they get me out of the house. I enjoy the social aspect of the walks and the cup of coffee and the chat at the end of each walk."

Hambleton Strollers run short healthy walks from all the market towns across Hambleton.

Anyone recovering from an illness or who just needs to get out of the house is invited to join their local group.

For more details contact Paul Fisher on 01609-771624 or email strollers@ageconcernnorthyorkshire.co.uk