Numbers attending Walk and Talk group is positive

A NEW walking group called ‘Walk and Talk’ has been recently set up in Clondalkin.

The group has been founded by Louise Coughlan, Bawnogue, Clondalkin and Keith French, also Clondalkin.

Keith volunteers a lot at the Knockmitten Community Centre where his wife, Leah is the manager.

“I was always saying that I would love to do something for the community, instead of just volunteering and this is what I’ve come up with,” said Keith.

The group meet on Tuesdays and Thursday at 6 pm at Knockmitten Community Centre.

“Tonight [Tuesday, March 12] is our third walk,” said Keith.

The numbers attending these walks have been positive.

“On our first walk we had 20 taking part, on the second walk, the weather was miserable, 14 came along,” said Keith.

Stephen Brennan from Jobstown came up with the idea for walk and talk.

“He averages 20 at his walks but he is established a few years,” said Keith.

Normally it costs €1600 per year in insurance for a walking group, according to Keith.

However Sport Ireland’s Active Cities have said that they will cover this cost.

“They have said that they will provide high vis’ jackets and a first aid bag.

“We have our own first aid bag,” added Keith.

It is free to join the group and there are two routes that attendees can select from.

“There is the 2.6 kilometre route which is a lap of Knockmitten park and there is a 5 kilometre route which consists of a partial lap of Knockmitten park and a partial lap of Clondalkin village, going up Nangor Road into the village past the Garda station and on to Watery Lane,” said Keith.

Participants can walk for up to one hour 15 minutes if they wish. Going forward Keith hopes to check out alternative routes for the group and is cognisant that bad lighting is a further reason that puts people off walking.

The group are also looking to expand to hiking once a month for those who want the longer walk.

One aspect of the reasoning for Keith in helping to set up this group is regarding mental health.

“This aspect is as important as physical health.

“If someone feels the need for a chat, they may feel more comfortable doing so when someone is lending an ear.

“I am safe talk trained and I also have first aid training,” said Keith.

Those wishing to attend are also asked to bear in mind the importance of having appropriate footwear, either runners or boots, and appropriate clothing, including a rain jacket, and a bottle of water.

A high visibility jacket will be provided.

There will also be tea and coffee available after the walk in Knockmitten community centre.