A SERIES of ‘health walks’ are taking place in East Renfrewshire.

Organised by the East Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP), the events have resumed after being put on hold for several months as part of lockdown restrictions.

These weekly walks aim to help local residents take part in gentle exercise, as well as meet other people and enjoy some fresh air.

A HSCP spokesperson said: “East Renfrewshire has a number of beautiful green spaces that are worth exploring.

"From Rouken Glen Park to Greenbank Gardens and Dams to Darnley Country Park to Neilston Pad, there’s lots of places you can visit to connect with nature and take time for yourself.”

A full list of routes and times can be found at www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/health-walks.

The HSCP is also supporting Mental Health Awareness Week, which takes place from May 10-16.

Hosted by the Mental Health Foundation, this year’s theme is nature.

The spokesperson added: “Since the beginning of the pandemic, many of us have turned to nature to help us get through lockdowns. Research by the Mental Health Foundation has shown that good mental health depends on us being able to connect with nature in some way and its power in both prevention of and recovery from poor mental health.”

For more information about Mental Health Awareness Week, visit mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw.