Residents are being encouraged to join the fourth annual Nailsworth Walking Festival, as organisers hope for a record turn-out.

Spread over two weeks between 25 May and 7 June, the festival offers walkers of all ages a variety of opportunities to explore local countryside. The 2013 edition saw 395 people join the walks organised by Nailsworth Health Partnership.

Marilyn Miles, Chair of NHP, said: “Our overall aim has always to combine the healthy benefits of walking in the fresh air with a theme that hopefully will improve your well- being as well, whether it is learning something new, or experiencing the world from a different perspective.”

This year the festival will be bigger than ever, with the 22 events kicking off with a special 4 mile war and peace walk, which will additionally be the final event of the Nailsworth Festival. Other walks include special early morning bird walks, a pub crawl and a climb up to Rodborough Common- where a reward of Ice Cream awaits.

The World War One centenary will be a theme throughout the walks, with several walks commemorating the 100-year anniversary. Fitness and healthy living will be another theme present, with the Hash Bash event inviting participants to run part of the route.

The NHP are keen for everyone to be involved, even if walking isn’t your thing- as two special talks are planned, as well as a drawing seminar. Joe Hofman will give a talk about her Spanish pilgrimage while Dave Wilson recounts his 1042 mile trek from Lands End to Cape Wrath.

Most walks are free, although some are subject to availability. For more information and booking details visit nailsworthhealthpartnership.org