A SERIES of Friday evening walks for the spring and summer is being launched this week by Aireborough Civic Society.

The walks will take place every fortnight until September 2.

The first, around the countryside next to the former High Royds Hospital, will sett off at 6pm tomorrow.

New faces are welcome and anyone who wants to join in should meet in the drive opposite the Wetherby Whaler. There is no need to book.

Society chairman, Clive Woods, said: "This is one of my favourite walks in our area.

"The rolling landscape behind High Royds gives great views of the moors above Guiseley and the Chevin. The imposing Grade II listed High Royds Hospital and its grounds add to the views throughout this walk, and it also passes the medieval High Royds Hall, also listed.

"The walk is ideal for beginners as there are no steep sections and it is only three miles long. It also shows how valuable our greenbelt is and why it should be protected from unnecessary new development."

The Friday evening walks were started in 1993 by the late Albert Shutt, then chairman of the Aireborough Civic Society. His plan was to explore the Aireborough area, visiting places even local residents hadn’t been to, and ensuring footpaths were kept in use.

Unless stated, the walks are normally between three and four miles in length. The pace is as fast as the slowest walker.

Visit aireboroughcivicsociety.org.uk for more information and contact details.

The society holds its normal meetings and talks on the last Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in Rawdon Community Library in Micklefield Park, Rawdon.