THE latest fundraising initiative put its best foot forward as it made its debut in Wokingham.

The Wokingham Walk saw more than 170 residents take to the borough's footpaths to help raise money for the borough mayor's charity.

The weather could not have been better for the first ever walk which sent residents on either a five or 15 mile circular walk starting and ending at Elms Field.

Chairman of the organising committee Andy Slay said: "What a great day. Everyone who took part enjoyed themselves and asked if the committee could make this an annual event."

The event was raising money for ARC Counselling with walkers encouraged to raise further funds for groups of their choice.

The charity offers a free and confidential counselling service. to anyone who needs counselling, young or old, at their .

Oliver Hicks, land director at walk sponsors Richard Worth & Coat, the took part in the event with his family.

"My wife and I had a great day with our 2 children," he said.

"We had no idea that the countryside on our door step is so varied.

"As our children are young so we did the five mile route.

They thoroughly enjoyed the Nature Trail competition and it was an honour to be in at the being sponsoring this great event whose popularity will I am sure grow and grow."

Paul Cassidy and a team of Volunteers from ARC Counselling helped organise the start and send walkers off on their route.

He said: "We are very grateful to Andy and his team for all their hard work.

"The money they have raised will help ARC with its work helping local children who need help dealing with the pressure of modern life."