HEALTH chief Sue Young put her best foot forward when she joined the growing band known as the Hambleton Strollers.

The chairman of the local primary care trust joined 30 other people for a 45 minute stroll near Bedale Leisure Centre. The Hambleton Strollers are part of the national Walking the Way to Health initiative, a joint venture by the British Heart Foundation and the Countryside Agency. Local volunteers have been trained as walk leaders and their role not only involves leading the walk, but planning the route beforehand and keeping records.

There are now around 17 walks every month from various towns and villages, including Thirsk, Bedale and Northallerton.

The aim is to encourage people to walk at least 30 minutes a day.