WITH an increasing emphasis on the need for healthy living and keeping fit, going on a long walk with good company is one excellent way of taking exercise.

Newport Ramblers Club offers just that and new members are always welcome.

Mavis Booth, who has been a member for more than 25 years, said the club has about 35 active members who meet every Saturday.

"We average seven or eight miles and just occasionally a little bit longer. We stretch it out by having a coffee stop and a lunch stop. We are not trying to break any records."

The routes are varied although they do return to old favourites. "A good pair of boots are essential and a good waterproof is recommended. It is a good idea to bring extra water and something for lunch such as a couple of sandwiches," said Mrs Booth.

"While we are walking we discuss all sorts of topics. It's very friendly. "It's very social - we have an outing once a year and usually have a Christmas party."

While the ages of the Newport members ranges from 45 to 80 younger people are welcome to join in.

They meet at 10.25am every Saturday in the car park behind the old Odeon (now the Newport City Live Arena) and leave promptly at 10.30am. Over the next couple of months, their programme includes walking around Bedwas on May 1, Mynyddislwyn Church and Mynydd-y-lan Common on May 8, the coast and down from Ogmore, on May 15 and Penallt and The Argoed on May 22.

There are a number of other similar groups in Gwent including Lower Wye Ramblers and Risca U3A.

The Risca walkers meet on Mondays and leave the lower car park of Risca leisure centre at 10am.

Its programme includes walks in the Wye Valley and Patrishow next month.

For more information about Newport Ramblers Group contact 01633 252783.