A GROUP of walkers completed the first fully-guided crossing of Torfaen - from Garn Lakes in the north to Two Locks in the south.

The walkers, who included three five-year-olds, two of whom were twins Megan and Owain Hughes, and 76-year-old Mel Reid, have covered fourteen miles in guided walks organised by Torfaen council to promote the health benefits of walking.

The first stage of their trek took them six miles from Garn Lakes, above Blaenavon, to Abersychan. The second stage covered the four miles from Abersychan to Pontymoile Canal Basin, and the third stage, finished on Sunday, ran four miles from Pontymoile to Two Locks, Cwmbran.

Parties on guided walks meet in car parks before being taken by minibus to the beginning of that days' walk.

Ruth Reed, countryside officer for Torfaen council and walk leader, said: "We've had virtually every age group, it's been a really good mix. "Walking is good for your health and it's a good social activity. The people on the walks have been surprised at how much countryside there is close to the urban areas. They've found it easy enough. We've had very hot weather but it is only a gentle slope downhill."