ALTON'S reputation as a walker-friendly town could receive official recognition if Alton Town Council succeeds in its bid to become part of the 'Walkers are Welcome' network.

Obtaining 'Walkers are Welcome' status, as a growing number of communities across Britain are doing, brings a number of benefits.

It helps strengthen a town's reputation as a place for visitors to come to enjoy the outdoors, bringing useful benefits to the economy.

It helps to ensure that footpaths and facilities for walkers are maintained in good condition, benefiting local people as well as visitors.

It can contribute to local tourism plans and regeneration strategies.

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.