CANCER support groups in Bolton are making a welcome return after their activities were postponed due to the pandemic.

Macmillan Cancer Support’s gardening and walking groups are now back up and running for anyone affected by cancer to attend – but subject to the Government’s latest coronavirus guidance.

The ‘Walk n Talk’ Group will meet up once again and head out from this Friday for a one-mile walk at Smithills Hall.

They meet up in the Bolton area at 1pm on the first Friday of each month and the walks vary in duration and difficulty to cater for all abilities.

And the Friends of Moss Bank Park, a free gardening group, which helps maintain and improve the walled garden, meet every Tuesday morning, 10am – 12 noon, from April to September.

No experience is needed to join the friends. All abilities are welcome to help with pruning, growing, planting or just simply enjoy the surroundings and meeting new people.

Hannah Currie, from Bolton Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service, which helps run the support groups, said: “Have you been isolated during lockdown? Have you been affected by cancer?

“Getting active can be a positive step, and there is plenty of evidence to suggest that exercise can help both mentally and physically. We welcome anyone affected by cancer to come along to our gardening and walking groups.

“Gardening and walking can offer many benefits for physical and mental health and can help manage some of the effects of cancer treatments, such as fatigue and depression.”

The groups give people the opportunity to talk with others who may be in similar situations, as well as getting out in the fresh air and improving their wellbeing.

Booking is vital due to Covid restrictions. For further details, and reservations, call 01204 663059 or email boltoncancerinfo@nhs.net