A NEW series of 'gentle walks' which are open and accessible to those with dementia are starting in Nailsworth today.

This walk will be the first of many organised and led by Chris Moore, Dr Ros Mulhall ,and Clare Janik who are from the Nailsworth Dementia Friendly Group and are passionate about helping those with dementia.

The group aims to help people with dementia, and their carers, to feel fully engaged with the community and feel supported to live well with the condition.

Ros, who has been a GP for 35 years, says that she has met many families touched in some way by dementia.

But it was while caring for her mother who died of dementia in 2017 that she realised how a simple pleasure like walking outside and reconnecting with nature could make all the difference to her mother's enjoyment of the day.

"Going outside makes us all feel much better - enjoying the fresh air, sunlight, nature and helps to relieve stresses of everyday living," she said.

"The walks offer a chance to meet new people and exercise and social interaction can help to improve sleep and food intake," Ros explained.

Clare janik was the managing director of Corinium Care in Nailsworth, an agency which provides live in carers for people with dementia.

Her mother suffered with dementia, and she is enthusiastic about the benefits of the walks, both for those with the condition, and their companions.

The walks will take place in a valley between Nailsworth and Horsley and will take the form of a gentle walk on the flat along the lakeside.

There promises to be lots to see including sculptures, flowers, ducks, herons, and most importantly a cafe with delicious cakes and refreshments, and a chance to chat too.

The first walk will take place today at 10.30am starting at Ruskin Mill College, The Fisheries, Horsley Mill, GL6 0PL.

It is expected to last approximately two hours, is wheelchair friendly, and dogs are welcome.

Subsequent walks will take place on July 11, Aug 15 and Sept 12.

For more details and to book a place contact Clare on 07805758090 or email clarejanik@hotmail.com.