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Edinburgh Quay to Harrison Park Walk

The Lord Provost of Edinburgh, George Grubb, Robin Harper MSP, Sarah Boyack MSP, Cllr David Beckett, Cllr Gordon Buchan and Cllr Andrew Burns will join members of the public on Saturday 24 May as they put their best foot forward to improve their health and learn more about the city’s new ‘Canal Quarter’ – which stretches from Edinburgh Quay to Harrison Park.

Waterways and environmental heritage charity, The Waterways Trust Scotland, has developed a new walking programme, Feet First, a free guided waterways walking programme designed to promote and encourage walking as a healthy, educational and enjoyable form of exercise for all ages.

Two Primary Schools – Tollcross and Canal View, and members of the public have been taking part in the walking programme since April, enjoying different locations along the Union Canal and Water of Leith in Edinburgh.

On Saturday 24 May, a cross-party group of Edinburgh politicians will join the walking programme and learn about the Union Canal heritage and wildlife, whilst benefiting from a relaxed walk in safe, friendly environment.

Karen Moore, Head of Development for The Waterways Trust Scotland, said: “We are delighted that the Lord Provost, Robin Harper MSP, Sarah Boyack MSP and Councillors Beckett, Buchan and Burns are able to join us on one of our walks.

“Inactivity has been described as the silent killer in our society. Juts thirty minutes of walking can significantly reduce our chances of suffering many debilitating diseases. However, whilst the physical health benefits of regular walking are well documented, Feet First also offers walkers companionship, support and consistently delivers a feel-good factor for all involved.

“The triple themes of every walk – canal / waterways heritage, wildlife and of course health provide a rich source of interest, information and stimulation for walkers. No two walks are the same – new walkers come with their own knowledge, personalities and memories which enrich the experience.

“We do not simply preach the health message to our walkers – we provide a vehicle for them to discover and explore the wonderful waterways on their doorstep and their potential for leisure, pleasure and education.”

Richard Millar from British Waterways Scotland said: “The Feet First programme on the Union Canal encourages everyone in the local community to get active and enjoy a walk along the canal towpath, and we are delighted to support the initiative. This walk begins at the thriving canal centre, Edinburgh Quay, part of along Edinburgh’s Canal Quarter, which is a gateway to the enjoyable peace and tranquillity of the Union canal right in the heart of the city. Walking is a great form of exercise, so whether it is a leisurely stroll or brisk walk, Scotland’s canal network offers the perfect location to get walking. ”

The innovative healthy-living programme is run in partnership between The Waterways Trust Scotland, British Waterways Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage.

For further information on Feet First contact Alan Forrester on 07768 951 740 or email info@feetfirstedinburgh.com