Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) are launching a weekly walk to help tackle diabetes.

MVDC announced they would be pairing up with Leatherhead Diabetes Walk and Talk to host a weekly fitness walk for those diagnosed with (or at risk of) type two diabetes.

The group will meet for 13 weeks, starting this Monday (May 13) and will involve one hour's scenic walking followed by an hour-long discussion.

MVDC Chief Executive Karen Brimacombe encouraged residents to take part and highlighted the clear benefits of signing up to the walks.

"The talks will be structured and cover a range of topics on diabetes, and the lifestyle factors that cause and prevent it.

"The groups will provide a mutually-supportive atmosphere for those looking to make changes to their lives.

"They are a rare chance for sufferers to share their experiences of the condition with people who can truly empathise," Ms Brimacombe said.

This initiative is part of a wider scheme promoted by MVDC called Walk for Health, which encourages fun, free and accessible volunteer-led walks to help people make connections and get healthy while exploring the local countryside.

To find out more about MVDC’s Walk for Health walks, and to download the new timetable, visit www.molevalley.gov.uk/walkforhealth. The timetable can also be picked up at MVDC’s Dorking office or Leatherhead Leisure Centre.

The Diabetes Walk and Talk group will meet at the entrance to Leatherhead Leisure Centre at 10am. There is free parking at the leisure centre.

To reserve a place, or for more information, call the Walk and Talk Coordinators on 07954 013496 or email ldwalk1@virginmedia.com.