Orienteering Courses in Blandford…
Embrace a fun way of getting active with family and friends and trial the new orienteering courses being launched in Blandford this year. Blandford Forum Town Council, Blandford Group Practice and Public Health Dorset are launching the courses with the support of partners Wessex Orienteering, Wimborne Orienteers, Dorset Council Rangers and David Cowgill, a local orienteering resident.
Anyone can take part, anytime. With a shorter course of 2km and a longer one of 5km, the initiative aims to encourage residents to increase physical activity and embed the use of green spaces for activity and recreation.
The first course at Stour Meadows was opened in June 2022 by the Mayor, Cllr Colin Stevens and the Milldown was opened on 1st April 2023 by Milldown Primary School Headteacher, James Law. View the Milldown Orienteering Course press release here.
The courses are on Dorset Council owned public open spaces and nature reserves.
Each course is laid with 2 letter codes on plaques at various points. Using the MapRun6 app or a waterproof map, you can walk or run the course with the aim of successfully navigating around the course, finding the controls. Maps can be borrowed from the Library, the Information Centre, Whitecliff Surgery and the Black Cactus Café opposite Morrisons or printed from Wimborne Orienteers website.
Matt Lee, PCN Strategic Business Manager, The Blandford Group Practice said “The Blandford Group Practice is delighted to have played a part in establishing the Blandford Orienteering routes. The routes offer local people access to a free, fun activity that can be enjoyed by those of all ages and all levels of fitness. Just 30 minutes of walking can improve cardiovascular fitness, help reduce excess body fat, strengthen bones, build muscle power and increase endurance so we’d urge everyone to give it a go!”
“This project has been a great example of partnership working in Blandford Forum, and the course will be a fantastic free resource for residents and visitors to benefit from” said Cllr Lynn Lindsay, Chairman of the Recreation & Amenities Committee.
According to the NHS, being active can reduce your risk of major illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and cancer. Research shows it can also boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing your risk of stress, depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Spending time outside and in nature is also great for your mental wellbeing.
Here is the map for the Stour Meadows course and the instructions:
Last modified: April 3, 2023
