AN INVERCLYDE fitness group has created a mobile phone app that has become a global hit and is now inspiring local people to walk a million miles.

The World Walking app developed by the Inverclyde Globetrotters has been downloaded by 12,000 people in over 50 countries.

It lets people record how many steps they are doing, no matter where they are.

Now it will be used by the new Inverclyde ‘Million Miles Challenge’ to encourage local people to walk, cycle, run or swim their way to an active and healthier life.

Globetrotter Duncan Galbraith said: “The app has been a great success. It has allowed us to link up with people from across the world.

“We started as a cardio rehab group in the Waterfront Leisure Centre and we have gone from there.

“We want to make it easy for people to get out there.

“We are very excited to be part of the Million Miles Challenge and we want people to get out there and start walking.”

Provost Robert Moran officially launched the challenge on Thursday.

The unique challenge is funded by Inverclyde Health and Social Care Partnership and Awards for All, and managed by CVS Inverclyde. 

It is also being supported by Inverclyde Council and Inverclyde Leisure.

Million Miles Challenge co-ordinator Sarah Jane Gregson said: “The project, which is the first of its kind in Scotland, is a fun way to combat health inequality and promote healthy lifestyles here in Inverclyde. 

“As our aim is to get the whole community involved, we are asking everyone to round up their family, friends, school pals and work colleagues and sign up today.”

A Million Miles walk will set off from the Municipal Buildings in Clyde Square, Greenock today, led by the Inverclyde Tourist Group. 

To take part visit www.worldwalking.org/millionmiles