Scottish Catholic Observer

The Wee Walks campaign forms part of the charity’s strategy to help children lead healthier and more active lifestyles.

The participating pupils followed one and two-mile walking routes and were entertained along the way by a host of wacky characters, including giant monkeys, bears, cats, cowboys and, in keeping with the healthy theme, a huge strawberry.

The characters were played by pupils from neighbouring St Andrew’s and St Bride’s High School who were on hand throughout the walk to dish out healthy snacks, helping the walkers re-fuel and learn ways to enjoy their recommended five-a-day of fruit and veg.

Mick Jackson, founder of Wild Hearts, has been thrilled by the response of the Wee Walks campaign so far.

“Wild Hearts have held successful public Wee Walks across Scotland but this is one of the first times we have worked directly with a school and the response from teachers, pupils and parents at St Leonard’s has just been phenomenal,” Mr Jackson said.

“Wee Walks aim to promote healthy lifestyles in a fun way that kids of all ages can really relate to and it’s simply wonderful that St Leonard’s share our determination to make Scotland a healthier place.”

Wild Hearts also aim to show participating children how they can make a difference in the world and become global citizens by encouraging them to raise funds for their micro-finance projects in the developing world.

Wild Hearts tackle global poverty by providing micro-loans and business training to some of the world’s poorest people, enabling them to work their way out of poverty, support their families and send their children to school.