Date: 18/09/2008
Disabled people from the Derby and Nottingham areas have discovered the delights of Buxton -- thanks to a day out in High Peak, organised by the Borough Council.
Members of the Derby Deafblind Group -- part of Deafblind UK -- took part in a walk around the award-winning Pavilion Gardens, Edwardian Opera House and Grade I listed Crescent. They also quenched their thirst with Buxton's famous spa water and enjoyed lunch in the Pavilion Gardens restaurant.
High Peak's community sports co-ordinator Paul Evans guided the 16-strong group around the popular tourist trail, after giving a talk to them, at one of their regular meetings, about the success of the Walks for Health programme, organised by the Borough Council.
"They were so interested in Paul's talk about how Walks for Health encourages everyone to enjoy the physical, mental and social benefits of exercise, that he invited them to Buxton to try a guided walk for themselves," said Andrew Bingham, Executive Councillor for Community and Social Development. "I gather it made such an impression, they're planning a return visit in the spring."
Yvonne Hirst, women's development officer for Deafblind UK, who accompanied the group, said: "All our members really enjoyed it. Getting out in the fresh air, meeting different people and having access to such a fascinating walk was a real experience for them.
"A key aspect of my role is to encourage deafblind women to get out into the community to enjoy activities that most of us take for granted, and some in the group have already expressed an interest in joining the Walking your way to health programme in their area. We look forward to coming back to the High Peak next year."
Photo: Members of the Derby Deafblind Group, outside The Crescent in Buxton.