An Oldham grandmother with a hip replacement could become a ‘footpath guardian’ after volunteering to smarten up a popular walking route.
Celia Costello, of Shaw, has become one of the first volunteers for the GM Ringway – Greater Manchester’s walking trail that spans 323km across all 10 boroughs.
Her duties will include guided walks between Greenfield and Newhey.
The 75-year-old grandmother of four will be one of 50 volunteers to help with the guided walks, as well as signposting the stages of the route with wayfinding markers, and testing routes.
Speaking about why she signed up, Celia said: “I enjoy getting out in the fresh air, seeing wildlife and walking near water. I don’t mind walking by myself or in a group – they both offer something.
“One of the nice things I've found about walking in a group is the chance to meet different people. It's easy to talk while you're walking alongside someone.”
Setting up a network of ‘footpath guardians’ to look after designated stages, get involved in community events, and manage the trail long-term is also something Celia may partake in.
She continued: “One reason for getting involved with the GM Ringway is so I could learn more about opportunities for walking Greater Manchester and discover new routes.
“My ambition is to do the whole trail eventually, but in very small chunks. It doesn’t matter how long it takes.
“If I can help the project while doing it, I will. So far, I’ve been a backmarker on a couple of the guided walks to make sure we don’t leave anyone behind.”
Originally from near Preston in Lancashire, the retired social worker who moved to the area two years ago to be closer to her family, underwent a hip replacement 18 months ago.
Elsewhere in Oldham, popular walking route the Pennine Way is set to undergo a £50,000 facelift.
Andrew Read, GM Ringway project lead, added: “We wouldn’t be able to achieve all we’ve set out to do without the help of local people like Celia, and we’re very grateful for the time she is generously giving us.
“Our main objective with the GM Ringway project is to bring the benefits of walking, nature and heritage to a wider range of people. We’re keen to work with individuals and community groups across Greater Manchester to achieve our goal.”
The route passes more than 40 Grade I and II listed buildings, 13 accredited museums and 14 scheduled ancient monuments.
Residents interested in acting as a volunteer should visit the GM Ringway website.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here