AN Inverclyde health group is fighting through storms to set up walking groups and get people on the right road.

Volunteers from Inverclyde Bothy are setting up treks across the district in a bid to encourage people outdoors and combat social isolation.

They are attracting people of all ages who are keen to get out in the fresh air and meet new people.

As the scheme's popularity grows, more routes are springing up while old favourites like a stroll along Gourock waterfront continue to flourish.

Co-ordinator Lorna McCartney, who leads the Gourock walk, said: "We started a year ago with Storm Ali and now we've just faced Storm Brendan!

"We always get a good turnout, even on a windy day.

"It is a great way for people to get out the house and make friends,"

Gourock lady Betty McLaughlin, 79, has been walking with Inverclyde Bothy for the last year.

She said: "It gets me out the house.

"I come along for the fresh air and a blether.

"I really like it."

Naomi Tritschler, 23, takes her dog Toby on the walks.

Naomi said: "It was recommended to me by SAMH and I come along every week.

"I was feeling very isolated and it really helps me."

The group also organise events in partnership with the local tourist group, taking people on trips to find out more about local landmarks.

Their latest walk is run together with the Royal West of Scotland Amateur Boat Club on the Esplanade, who open their doors afterwards.

It takes place every Wednesday from 7pm and lasts no more than one hour, leaving from the boat club along the Esplanade and back.

Health walk co-ordinator Jenni Murray added: "This is a very popular walk and I think we will look at introducing more in the evenings."

The Gourock walk takes place every Wednesday from 10.30am from the Bothy base in the railway station.

On Mondays they meet at Your Voice at 1pm for a walk around Greenock and there is also a Wednesday wander at Parklea, Port Glasgow at 1pm.