A very handy new guide has been published and distributed free of charge in the local shops, which highlights walking and cycling routes in the local area. Written by Mrs Tova Schprecher, well known for both her professional photography as well as her popular walking groups, the walking guide has an interesting background.

A representative of Transport for Greater Manchester contacted Binoh of Manchester as they were very keen on doing something to encourage local people to walk and cycle more. Knowing Mrs Schprecher for her interest in promoting walking in the scenic countryside in and around Manchester, Binoh contacted her and asked for her input. The three parties sat together for some time and came up with the idea of the booklet containing detailed maps for local beautiful walks.

Producing the booklet was far from simply printing maps; when Tova recommends a walk, or takes a group of women on one, she meticulously researches it first, going to the place numerous times and making sure the route is easy to follow and includes the most beautiful parts of the area. Producing the walking guide therefore, was an intense job, but for Tova it was a real labour of love.

Categorised into easy, moderate and advanced walking levels, the five walks cover Broughton, Prestwich and Worsley, and follow the River Irwell and Bridgewater Canal respectively. Walks which are buggy friendly are marked appropriately, with steps clearly marked on the maps. Another useful feature on the maps is where Tova has marked the points where one can take a taxi home instead of completing the whole walk.

Tova encourages people to just start walking; no prior walking experience is required. She says, “Make walking a habit – just ten minutes a day has huge health benefits. Not only is it great for your mental and physical wellbeing, it gets you out into the fresh air and socialising with others.” She also advises walkers to remember to take with comfortable footwear and clothing, including a raincoat.

“Explore your local area and open up new places for you and your friends and family to enjoy”, says Tova, and she is certainly qualified to say this, as she knows the many beautiful walks in and around Manchester better than most born and bred Mancunians!

For more information about the routes, or to arrange or join a walking group with Tova, please contact her on 07757 695 599.