IN PICTURES: Big group of Laois walkers enjoy Durrow Leafy Loop

Laois community volunteers and club members had a lovely day out in the leafy Dunmore Woods, Durrow recently, organised by the umbrella group Laois Public Participation Network (PPN).

Full story below this gallery of photos by Michael Scully. Tap NEXT to scroll through. 

Laois PPN organised a Woodland Wellness Walk on World Mental Health Day as part of Laois Connects, the annual week long festival of positive mental health and wellbeing events.
The walk was on Tuesday, October 10 and with the theme of “healthy body, healthy mind”, attendees were treated to breakfast at Bowes Café afterwards.
World Mental Health Day aims to raise awareness of mental health issues and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health.
Paddy Buggy is Laois PPN Secretariat Chairperson.
"We were delighted to welcome a large group at this Laois Connects event hosted by us. We are delighted as always to participate with Laois County Council, the HSE and other organisations to hold events which are people focussed and showcase our county.
"This particular walking route incorporates a green way and a blue way on the outskirts of Durrow and was a delight for all of us participating, as always followed by a hearty breakfast in Bowes. Well done to all who participated and thanks to Dan Bergin for organising this on behalf of the PPN," he said.
Laois PPN Co-Ordinator is Dan Bergin.
“It was a wonderful opportunity for our member groups to connect with nature and each other as part of Laois Connects.
“As a group we benefited from the proven mental and physical health benefits of woodland walking. We enjoyed good company, good food and chats, creating those social connections that are important for our mental wellbeing.”
The Laois Connects Programme, co-ordinated by Laois County Council promotes and supports positive mental health and wellbeing.
Laois PPN has 650+ member groups from the community, social inclusion and environmental pillars.
All member groups are given the opportunity to attend Laois PPN events.
Any group wishing to join can fill out an application on www.laoisppn.ie