New signs point way to walking routes

The commission has launched a social media video series and is putting up signs, for six months to begin with, to point islanders in the direction of different walks under the #GetOutThere banner.

Around Town, 18 signs will be installed to indicate good walking routes.

‘There are two new initiatives we are introducing,’ said Alun Williams, Be Active lead for the commission.

‘One is #GetOutThere, which came about after lots of people really embraced and enjoyed activity over lockdown. We want people to use the hashtag while on walks.

‘We are keen to hear from people who got more active during lockdown, and continued to be more active since.’

The signs have information about the distance, time and number of steps it takes to reach popular destinations.

‘We have released videos reminding people of what we went through, and demonstrating that being active can be simple,’ said Mr Williams.

‘Many people experience barriers to exercise due to expense, intensity or risk of injury. These act as a prompt that walking is an often under-appreciated but effective way to keep fit.’

Quieter roads were taken advantage of during lockdown, and many students are now using active travel on their school journeys.

‘People have been more active of their own volition.

‘They have made and continue to make small, incremental steps to be more active.

‘The more active you are, the more you discover places in Guernsey.

'Things you never thought you could do are achievable.’

Half the cost of the signs was paid for through the Channel Islands Co-operative Society’s Helping Hands scheme.

Acting community manager Katey White said: ‘Our Helping Hands fund was launched more than 20 years ago to make a real difference within the community.

‘We have all faced challenging times over recent months and it’s fantastic to see that islanders in Guernsey are once again able to get out and about.’

. Sign locations and the videos are on the commission website https://bit.ly/2BjKwTH