Success for the Striders

The Striders were set up in September to help social inclusion for older people in the Kiveton area.

Now after just a few months there is a regular group of 15 walkers who meet up every Monday.

Sue Fletcher, community development officer for Active Regen, based in Kiveton, set up the group after receiving funding from The Loscar Wind Farm Community Fund.

“I had feedback that there wasn’t this kind of activity in the area. The nearest walking groups were in Killamarsh and Thurcroft.”

“We were looking at activities for socialising so it was set up to offer some kind of group for social inclusion for older people.”

“In these villages people sometimes don’t get chance to mix.”

“A couple of the walkers are widows who love walking but did feel safe out walking by themselves.”

Sue said the group meets each Monday at around 10.15am and go on a 90-minute walk.

She said: “We have 15 regular walkers but have had up to 20 walkers in one session.”

“It is growing all the time.”

“We used to walk local but we have started going out to other areas such as Ulley and Rother Valley.”

“The group is proving really popular and the more people who get involved the longer it will keep going.”

“We are a really friendly group and always welcome new people.”

Sue said the walking group was just the beginning and she hoped to extend it and also set up other activities in the area.

“We have been going since September. I would like to roll it out in other areas such as Todwick, Harthill, Thorpe Salvin and Dinnington,” she added.

“I’m also looking into funding for other activities for the over 50s in the area.”

New members of the group will be given a pedometer when they join. Anyone is welcome to come along and give the group a try, regardless of ability.

Sue said: “We have people in their 70s who are really fit and others who are not so fit but like to be in the outdoors.

“We have enough instructors to be with every pace.”

Anyone wanting to join should call 01909 510775.