Walking group is changing lives, says founder

A walking group set up in North Lincolnshire to support people's mental health is "changing lives", its founder has said.

Gareth Morrison set up the Barton-Upon-Humber Good to Talk walking group in August last year, and says it has already made a real difference.

Morrison, 44, said he was inspired to do something after struggling with his own mental health, and the loss of close friends who took their own lives.

He said one person who attended, and was feeling very low, told him it had made him feel his life had some purpose.

"The main aim of the walks is helping as many people as possible with any issues such as mental health, loneliness, struggling to make friends, or fitness," he said.

"Everyone is welcome whatever their situation."

He said the walks provided an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to share their stories and experiences, or just to socialise.

"A lot of friendships have been made here," he said.

Morrison said the number of participants had more than doubled since he started the group, with the most recent walk attracting just short of 60 people.

He said it was also a great place for single people to make new friends.

"We have had a lot of single people who are quite nervous at first, but now you can't shut them up," he added.

Morrison, who works as a welder, said the feedback from participants had been very positive.

"One gentleman said it's changed his life," he added.

The group offers free weekly walks on a Sunday, often finishing with a visit to a local pub or cafe.

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