The Department of Community, Culture and Leisure’s Sport Development Unit is once again organising the successful Green Walk and Talk programme. The walks start in Ballaugh (April 8) and continue on a weekly basis, using seven routes covering all areas of the Island. The 2011 programme includes 22 walks. All routes will take approximately one hour and are relatively flat. Each session will conclude with refreshments, depending on the walk, using Silverdale cafe, Wildlife Park, The Bradda Glen, St John’s Parish Hall or Ballaugh Parish Hall. All walks commence 1.30pm, from their respective meeting point and cost ?1.50, which includes refreshments. There are incentives for completing all 22 walks. Hon David Cretney MHK, Minister for Community, Culture and Leisure said: ‘We are all very aware of the benefits of exercise, and through the Department’s Green Walk and Talk programme you can experience the Island’s fantastic countryside and enjoy the health benefits walking gives. The Walk and Talk sessions also offer a great opportunity to meet new friends.’ Sport Development Officer Gianni Epifani explained: ‘Every year the Green Walk and Talk continues to grow. However, without the assistance of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture and the Department of Infrastructure, which offer access to land and rights away, the walks could not take place. The Department of Health, Public Health Directorate also continues to support all Walk and Talk sessions. Their valuable support assists the delivery of all Walk and Talk sessions.’ For a copy of the Green Walk and Talk booklet, which outlines details of all the walks and the meeting points, please contact Sport Development Officer, Gianni Epifani on 688556, email Gianni.epifani@gov.im The next couple of walks are around Middle River – meet at National Sports Centre reception at 1.30pm on April 15, and at Silverdale Cafe on May 6. The Green Walk and Talks take place most Fridays through the summer except on bank holidays and during TT fortnight. -Ends-