Council encourages people to get fit and save money

Hot on the heals of a recent public health report that cited "increasing the number of people at a healthy weight" as one the county's top ten health priorities, Devon County Council is asking commuters to leave the car, "get fit and save money".

A new countywide campaign starts this month, encouraging drivers out of their cars, and to walk or cycle to work. 

Although Devon is predominantly a rural county, a great many residents live within easy walking or cycling distance to work and yet choose to drive. 

Progress in areas, such as Exeter, is being made.  

Results of a 2011 survey found that the City was amongst the top ten in the UK for increases in the numbers of people cycling to work, demonstrating a clear appetite for more active travel. 

More can be done though, which is why Devon County Council is asking people to think about the health, as well as the financial benefits to walking and cycling.

Councillor Andrea Davis, the Council's Cabinet Member responsible for Health and Wellbeing said: "There are environmental reasons why it's good to use alternatives to the car when getting to work, and maintaining good health has to also be a priority. 

"At least six out of 10 adults, according to research, are not physically active enough and are missing out on some really important health benefits such as improved mood and self-esteem, increased energy levels and prevention of weight gain. 

"Something as simple as walking the last mile to work, or cycling from the nearest Park and Ride to work, can improve people's health and wellbeing enormously, not to mention the saving on parking and petrol costs.

“This month, try it, with friends or by yourselves, and you’ll soon feel all the better for it!”