A BALLOCH walking enthusiast has won an award for her dedication in supporting walkers in West Dunbartonshire throughout lockdown.

Fran Crumley has been recognised as Project Coordinator of the Year for managing the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs Countryside Trust Walk in the Park programme at the 2021 Paths for All Volunteer Awards.

The programme currently hosts six walking groups across the national park which support more 250 walkers.

Fran said: “I have always been a walker even from a young age so I know personally how getting out walking can affect both your mental and physical health.

“We really try and support members of the community and build their confidence around walking. 

“When lockdown hit we really felt it was important to keep social connections going, especially being from a rural community it can be isolating.”

With the constant change of Covid restrictions, Fran worked tirelessly to get the groups out and walking again, while ensuring that guidelines were always being met.

She said: “The award means a huge amount to me. I’m really overwhelmed and thrilled that people took the time to put me forward for the award. 

“It’s just amazing to be acknowledged by everyone.”

Dave Beaumont, chair of the Trust added: “I was so pleased for Fran when I was told of this thoroughly well-deserved award. Fran has put so much into the Walk in The Park project over the years and the way she kept the activities and social contacts going through lockdown was exceptional.

“Fran is a superb ambassador for the Countryside Trust and on behalf of the Board and Fran’s colleagues I congratulate her on this achievement”.

Fran was commended at the awards ceremony, which was held virtually for the second year and which was hosted by BBC Radio Scotland’s Fiona Stalker.

To find out more about which health walks you can join in West Dunbartonshire, visit pathsforall.org.uk/healthwalkfinder.