Walk leaders and sponsors have encouraged the public to put their best foot forward at the launch of this year’s Farnham Walking Festival. 

The festival begins on Saturday 14 May with walkers being able to choose from a lovely five-mile spring circular walk starting from Bentley Church or a ten mile walk through the Bourne to Pierrepont. 

Mayor of Farnham, Councillor Alan Earwaker says: “If you like being out and about in the fresh air, I encourage you to pick up a Walking Festival brochure or browse our website at www.farnham.gov.uk/walkingfestival to find a walk or two that appeal. Each walk will be led by an expert guide who will share their knowledge and open your eyes to some amazing sights. 

“We are delighted to offer this wonderful opportunity for people to explore the local area and, thanks to generous support from our sponsors, the festival is completely free of charge.”

Sally Tidy, Chief Executive at The Abbeyfield Wey Valley Society and Gold sponsor says: “Walking is a wonderful way to stay active and presents social opportunities too. We are proud to be sponsoring the Walking Festival which includes walks for a variety of interests including local history walks, a bat walk for beginners, walks with spectacular views and routes that explore local waterways. Many walks also incorporate a bite to eat or refreshments at a local hostelry!” 

Farnham Veterinary Hospital is the Walking Festival’s Gold sponsor. Clinical Director Kevin Clayton says: “Sponsoring the Farnham Walking Festival is a great way for us to get involved in the community and on Saturday 4 June we are proud to be closing the festival with a charity dog walk in Farnham Park. The walk will raise money for the Cinnamon Trust which is a charity that is very close to our hearts as it provides support for elderly and terminally ill people with pets. We look forward to welcoming lots of local dog walkers and their four-legged friends!”

Farnham Walking Festival is the first event in Farnham Town Council’s summer programme, which is sponsored by Kidd Rapinet. 

Full information about the walks including details of those that require advance booking can be found at www.farnham.gov.uk/walkingfestival.