David Rutley MP joined Bollington residents and businesses at the Bridgend Centre to celebrate the village’s inclusion in the “Walkers are Welcome” scheme.
Bollington celebrated as it joined over 100 other towns and villages around the UK being accredited as part of the “Walkers are Welcome” network. Membership recognises that Bollington offers excellent walking opportunities to visitors and that footpaths are well maintained. It also shows that local businesses, such as bed and breakfasts, are committed to welcoming walkers.
Bollington’s bid to join the scheme was a community-led initiative, which David was happy to give his full support to. The bid to be included was led by the Destination Bollington Forum and builds on the success of the Bollington Walking Festival, which offers local and visiting walkers a variety of walks in and around Bollington in October.
Sandra Edwards, a member of the team behind the membership bid, said, “Joining “Walkers are Welcom” extends the identity of Bollington within the walking community of Britain. The online network of over 100 towns means that walkers know in advance that our community is committed to giving them a warm welcome. It also brings together our local businesses such as pubs, cafes, and accommodation providers, to work with community organisations and walking groups to provide for the needs of visitors and walkers.”
David said, “It is great to see Bollington being recognised as part of the “Walkers are Welcome” network. Like many people, I have enjoyed walks in and around the village and am always impressed not just by the scenery, but by the warm hospitality provided to visitors. I hope Bollington’s new “Walkers are Welcome” accreditation will further highlight Bollington’s great countryside and put it on the map as somewhere walkers really are welcome.”