THE first trip of a new walking group aimed at enabling more women to explore the great outdoors independently in Helensburgh, West Dunbartonshire and beyond will take place this evening (Thursday).

Skylark Guiding has been set up by Gaby Macbeth, who first discovered hill walking around 15 years ago and says the activity has been vital in improving her physical and mental health, especially when coping with bereavement.

Experienced guide Gaby hopes to inspire more women to try hill walking and benefit in the way she has, by offering guided walks for all budgets and abilities in Helensburgh and Lomond, Dumbarton and the Vale of Leven, and the wider Glasgow area.

The first event will take place tonight (Thursday, August 26) near Milton in Dumbarton and offers a shorter evening walk to watch the sun set from Doughnot Hill.

Tickets can be purchased online at eventbrite.co.uk - although tonight's walk is now sold out - with the group operating a pay-what-you-can policy.

Future events include climbing the Cobbler in Arrochar, a Munro in the Glencoe area, and an exploration of the Cairngorms.

See skylarkguiding.co.uk for more information.

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