Forestry Commission - News - olympic star helps folk get forest fit

Forest chiefs are going for gold as they launch this year’s Active Woods health campaign in 900 acre Guisborough Forest and Walkway.

Former world class 400 metre runner, Brian Whittle, will be the star attraction on 30 March when the Forestry Commission and Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council stage a unique “fitness in the forest” event.

Born in Scotland, Brian competed at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and two years previously ran the first leg in Britain’s Gold Medal winning team at the 1986 European Championships.

Now he’ll be handing out running and fitness tips to young and old alike wanting to get active.

Ranger Cath Brason said:

“It’s fantastic news that Brian Whittle will launch our Active Woods drive in Guisborough. Nobody is better qualified to offer folk of all ages and abilities advice on healthy living. It doesn’t take much to perk up your fitness and all that’s needed is a bit of encouragement, especially when it comes from a real athletics hero!”

The Territorial Army will also be on hand to help people wanting to tackle Guisborough Forest’s new Ł20,000 Trim Trail. Twelve different exercise areas have been created along a mile long circuit, including monkey bars and rustic weight lifting logs. There’s something for all fitness levels and it’s guaranteed to get your pulses racing!

The free event runs from 10am to 12 noon, meeting at the Guisborough Forest and Walkway Visitor Centre near Pinchinthorpe. For more information contact 01287 631132.

NOTE TO EDITORS
The Active Woods health drive was launched in response to the nation’s increasingly sedentary lifestyle. Over the last 20 years obesity levels have tripled, while rates of walking and biking have fallen. This year Guisborough Forest will host scores of healthy living events including running sessions for mums, tai chi and wildlife walks. For information more visit www.forestry.gov.uk/Active

Media calls to Richard Darn on 0113 341 3178. Mobile 07753 670 038.

ISSUED ON BEHALF OF THE FORESTRY COMMISSION BY RICHARD DARN, GNN, LEEDS. TEL: 0113 3413178. E mail: richard.darn@gnn.gsi.gov.uk