Avid walkers across North Ayrshire are encouraged to enter the Scottish Walking Awards – with nominations opening today.

Individuals, groups, and organisations can be submitted to the awards which seek to celebrate their “great work to promote walking or wheeling [using wheelchairs or mobility aids].”

Ten awards as well as an overall Champion of Champions’ title are up for grabs at this year’s ceremony.

Organised by Ramblers Scotland, Paths for All, and Living Streets Scotland the winners will be announced at a ceremony held during National Walking Month in May 2023.

Living Streets Scotland director Stuart Hay said: “In the two years since the first Scottish Walking Awards, we’ve seen so many projects flourishing in communities to make sure everyone has the opportunity to walk and experience safe and enjoyable walking environments.

“We want to celebrate these projects and the vitally important role of walking essential everyday journeys for the wellbeing of individuals and communities.

“Promoting walking is particularly important in light of stress and hardship in society brought about by the cost-of-living crisis.

“We want to celebrate all the fantastic work that’s going on all over the country, in areas such as social housing, health care, community organisations, workplaces and local authorities.”

Nominations will close on Sunday, March 19 with the winners being evaluated in April by an “expert judging panel.”

Past winners have helped those in their community and beyond, with 2021’s overall winner Magdalena Augustyn-Lygas’ walking project helping migrants improve their health, social life, and English skills.

To nominate yourself, your group, or others, visit www.pathsforall.org.uk/whats-on and write a short 250-word submission.