A TEN-MINUTE trek around the Bishop of Durham's garden launched a three-year council campaign to get thousands of Wear Valley people on the move.

The Wear Walking for Health initiative is promoting the benefits of exercise for people of all ages around the district.

It was launched yesterday at the Bishop of Durham's official home, Auckland Castle, in Bishop Auckland, before children from Peases West Primary School led guests on a stroll around the grounds.

Project co-ordinator Lynn Wilson has already arranged a series of guided walks and is gathering together groups in every community in the district.

Hundreds of people took part in a Ton Up Challenge, to jog or walk 100 miles, through the summer at Peases West athletics track.

The project is backed by a £50,000 grant from the Countryside Agency, presented by regional officer Lorraine Honeybell. The Durham Dales Primary Care Trust has contributed £20,000 and other supporters include Kia Cars, Age Concern and local ramblers' groups.

For information call Ms Wilson on (01388) 765555.