A HOUSING association has encouraged its residents, carers and staff to ‘walk around the world’ as part of a scheme to get people more active.

Those taking part, from Sentinel Housing Association’s extra care scheme, in Popley, Basingstoke, are aiming to reach their goal by Christmas Eve.

Several other groups are also taking part in the challenge, including Little Miss Muffet Nursery, in Popley Way, Basingstoke, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Pride Catering and ServiceMaster Clean.

All walkers have been given their own pedometer to track their progress, along with a record sheet to log the number of steps they take.

By the end of the 85 days, the walkers are hoping to have taken a total of 85 million steps, and participants will be given a celebratory tea on December 24.

Gemma Nicholson, Sentinel’s activities and involvement co-ordinator, said: “As we get older, it’s really important to keep fit and active to stay strong and steady and to help prevent falls.

“We’re hoping as many of the residents at Abbey Court as possible will take part. Any participation, no matter how small, can have real health benefits for the future.”