YORKSHIRE Cancer Research is encouraging people to explore some of the area's beauty spots with the launch of five exercise routes.

As part of the charity’s new Step Out for Yorkshire campaign, which begins on Sunday, May 1, Hidden Treasures boasts a series of routes in Beverley Westwood, Bolton Abbey, Langsett Reservoir, Otley Chevin and Whitby.

The Hidden Treasures routes aim to motivate and inspire people to exercise, whilst visiting some of the region's most beautiful walks, and they feature a range of easy to moderate exercise options that people can walk, run or cycle.

Step Out for Yorkshire is inviting people to run, walk or cycle any distance they choose during May while raising vital funds to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer in Yorkshire.

Dr Kathryn Scott, Chief Executive at Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: “The Hidden Treasures element of the campaign features five exercise routes which highlight some of the most beautiful areas in Yorkshire. It aims to motivate and inspire people to get involved, visit their favourite pocket of the county and share their most-loved walks, runs and bike rides.

“Our Step Out for Yorkshire campaign is all about giving your health and wellbeing a boost while helping to save lives and celebrating everything our beautiful region has to offer.

“That's why we're inviting people across the region to step outdoors and get moving. Those taking part can choose whichever exercise they love and set their own target, so everyone can join in regardless of their experience or abilities.”

The campaign aims to highlight the importance of exercise, which can play a crucial role in lowering the risk of cancer. Exercise before, during and after treatment for cancer has also been shown to help people respond better to treatment and prevent cancer coming back.

People are invited to help reach a fundraising target of £150,000, which will be used to fund experts and world-leading researchers who pioneer early cancer diagnosis and discover new and better treatments.

All funds raised through sponsorship will go towards essential work and research funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research, which is now more important than ever before as experts begin to tackle the impact of the pandemic on the diagnosis and treatment of people with cancer.

To sign up, donate and track your progress on a live leader board, visit the Step Out for Yorkshire campaign page at www.yorkshirecancerresearch.org.uk/stepout

Visit www.ycr.org.uk/hidden-treasures to find your nearest Hidden Treasures route.