ANY intrepid walking enthusiasts planning to tackle this year's Dudley Trail in early May can get in trim by taking part in a series of walks planned to improve people's fitness.

Guided walks will be taking place from the healthy hub buildings at Mary Stevens Park in Stourbridge and the Silver Jubilee Park in Coseley over the next five weeks.

There will be an organised five-mile walk on Saturday March 28 and a six-mile event on Saturday April 4 starting at both venues from 1pm.

Walks of seven miles on Sunday April 12, eight miles on Sunday April 19 and ten miles on Sunday April 26 will also be taking place, again at both venues starting at 11am.

There's no need to book for any of these events and walkers can just join in at any point, but must be able to tackle the designated distance.

The Dudley Trail takes place on Sunday May 3 and incorporates a total of five distances ranging from six miles right up to a much more testing 26 miles.

More than 2,000 walkers regularly take part in the Dudley Trail and organisers hope more people than ever will get involved with this year's event which includes routes containing many hidden beauty and heritage spots.

Deborah Harkins, chief officer for health and wellbeing with Dudley Council, said: "We want to encourage as many men, women and children in Dudley borough to get out and be active during 2015."

The event forms part of the 'let's get walking festival' which runs from Monday April 20 to Sunday May 3 and features a series of walks across the borough.

Entry forms are available online at www.dudley.gov.uk/himleyhall or from any of Dudley Council's leisure centres and libraries.

Alternatively details can be obtained from Himley Hall on 01384 817817.