A BARRHEAD group that aims to help people aged 50 and over boost their health and wellbeing is calling on more members of the community to come along to weekly meet-ups.

The Auchenback Walking Group sets off from Auchenback Resource Centre every Tuesday at 10am for walks lasting between 45 minutes and an hour.

Currently, six people attend but Ellen Mennie, who has been leader of the walking group since last September, is keen to get more residents involved, so they too can reap the social and physical benefits.

She told the Barrhead News: “We are trying to promote wellbeing and mental health and getting people out into the community, so we are trying to get more people to come along.

“It will get them out and benefit their health, especially older people who don’t have a lot of relatives and family about.

“We have a few older members and they are really enjoying getting out.

“The walks give them the chance to meet people, rather than just sitting in the house.

“It makes a difference to them.”

The meet-ups are free to attend and those who wish to take part can simply turn up on the day.

The walks mostly take in routes around Barrhead but members have recently enjoyed trips to the Fountain Gardens and Barshaw Park, both in Paisley, and Rouken Glen Country Park.

The get-togethers are also often followed by a cup of tea and some chat.

Ellen added: “We have received some funding from Asda and Tesco and one of the local community groups.

“We will be going in all weathers because some funding will go towards vouchers so members can get weatherproof gear if they need it.”