IT is time to clean down the walking boots.

A programme of walking events is planned for south Shropshire in the coming year.

Things kick-off with a challenging Bishops Castle Round and About Walk on Saturday, April 30.

Described as a ramble, amble or scramble’ there will be a choice of three walks of 22.5 miles, 13 miles or nine miles.

The longer distance will include Offa’s Dyke, the Shropshire Way and Walcott Estate.

In early May there is the Bishops Castle Walking Festival over nine days from Saturday, May 9 until Sunday, May 16.

The Church Stretton walking Festival starts on Thursday, June 23 with the signature event on Saturday, June 25. It is the Mynd Drover charity walk in aid of Church Stretton School.

Starting from the school walkers and runners will have a choice of 26 mile and 13 mile courses.

Walking, especially over long distance in heavy terrain and heat, can be physically demanding and walkers should have an appropriate level of fitness, be properly dressed with comfortable walking boots and be hydrated.