PEOPLE have been urged to enjoy the great outdoors at the first Bingley Walking Festival.

The event, run by the Bingley Walkers are Welcome group, will take place on Monday, May 1, from 10am.

Visitors will have the choice of four free walks. The two-hour Bingley Five Rise Locks family walk, led by Cedric Farineau, will leave from The Coffee Lounge, in Market Square, at 10am.

The three-mile canal history walk, led by David Smith, will meet at Five Rise Cafe at 10am and goes to 7 Arches, with walkers learning about the history of this part of the canal.

The six-mile Sir Fred Hoyle walk, led by Ronda Christensen, starts at Bingley Arts Centre at 2pm. It includes a walk to Coach Road, Milner Field to Primrose Lane and a chance to see Sir Fred’s birthplace and Three and Five Rise Locks.

The five-mile Beckfoot and Cottingley walk, led by Sue Dennis and Arthur Baxter, includes a walk to Beckfoot Bridge and parts of Cottingley village. Meet at Bingley Arts Centre at 11am.

Christine McCabe, Bingley Walkers are Welcome chairman, said: “We’re really looking forward to the first Bingley Walking Festival and hope that it will be the first of many walking festivals in our town.

“May 1 also marks the start of National Walking Month so we hope that the event encourages people to get out and about throughout the month and enjoy all that the town and surrounding area has to offer.”

People who wish to take part in one of the four walks have been advised to carry water and a snack and wear appropriate footwear and clothing.

Patricia Tillotson, tourism manager at Visit Bradford, said: “Events such as the first Bingley Walking Festival are great for the local economy and reinforce the fantastic outdoors offering Bradford has.

“We hope that this event will raise awareness of the area and encourage people to visit Bingley, taking in the stunning scenery while making best use of local businesses.”