Photo trails encourage families to explore Winsford and Northwich

A collection of photo trails gives parents the chance to look for clues with their children as they follow mapped routes across Winsford and Northwich.

Vale Royal School Sport Partnership started running simple but entertaining walks in January and they have proved so popular, 13 different trails have now been developed.

The photo trails take in all terrains including pavements, towpaths, bridleways and footpaths and range between one and four miles long.

Explore the River Weaver on one of the photo trails

Explore the River Weaver on one of the photo trails

An information sheet asks some questions about what can be seen on the way and there are lots of opportunities to take pictures and selfies.

You don’t need map-reading skills, just follow the instructions.

The initiative has inspired families to get active around the area's towns, villages and countryside.

The campaign is supported by Active Cheshire and Wellbeing Winsford and the number of trails will increase in the coming weeks to help families stay motivated to take part in physical activity at weekends.

Chris Story, partnership development manager Vale Royal School Sport Partnership, said: "We’ve been really proud to contribute to keeping families active over the past 12 months and the family photo trails are an extension of this.

"As a parent, I recognise just how hard it is to keep your family motivated at this time, but I know that getting outside and active in the fresh air really does help everybody stay healthy and well."

Families can download the trails and each map has advice on the length of the trail, the type of surface and might recommend wellies so that you know what you’re attempting before you set off.

Owley Wood is one of the locations

Owley Wood is one of the locations

Locations of trails include Whitegate Way (short and long routes), Carey Park, Northwich, Cuddington and Sandiway, Knight’s Grange, Winsford, Leftwich, Over, Winsford, Owley Wood, Weaverham, Rivers Dane and Weaver, Northwich, Rudheath, St John’s, Winsford, Wharton and Winsford town centre.

Winsford Town Cllr Ailsa Gaskill-Jones, chairman of Wellbeing Winsford, said: “We sadly had to make the decision to postpone Wellbeing Winsford Week this year due to the pressure on all our partners of the ongoing pandemic.

"We are hoping the postponed event will take place in April. However, we are really pleased to be able to support the launch of these family friendly photo trails and hope Winsford families will be able to take the opportunity of them over the half-term break.”

Knights Grange is the location of one of the trails Picture: Roger Westwood

Knights Grange is the location of one of the trails Picture: Roger Westwood

The walks have been specifically designed for families and for children be walked under adult supervision.

Sarah Tomlinson, head teacher Darnhall Primary School, said: “Anything to promote physical and mental well-being is essential more than ever at the moment. We will actively promote the photo trails via our social media and encourage as many families as possible to take part.”

Clare Morgan, head teacher Weaverham High School, said:“Blending family time with an activity that seeks to promote physical and emotional wellbeing is a powerful combination.

"Sharing your experience on a family outing may just give another family the inspiration they need to take part themselves. We look forward to seeing your family photos.”

For details of the trails visit valeroyalschoolsport.org/family-photo-trails