Be Richmond launched its first 'Be Well Wednesday' event yesterday, with a 'Green and Grounded walk' starting from Richmond Green.

The events are aimed at people living and working in the town, it's hoped the new initiative will provide a healthy lunchtime respite from the busy working week.

The walk was run by Andrew Cuerden and Carmen Rendell, from Soulhub, a local wellbeing organisation, and went from Richmond Green, along the river, ending up with refreshments at Brunch and Brew.

They said: "'What a joy to meet fellow Richmonders and explore together the simple yet profound power of mindfulness and meditation. To appreciate the importance of "me-time" so that we can connect better with others. Thank you to Be Richmond and bringing these opportunities to the community of Richmond."

During the walk, those attending were encouraged to take some time to walk in silence, touch trees, and take their shoes off in order to really connect with their surroundings and switch off from their busy lives.

Particpants were encouaraged to connect with nature. (Photo Credit: Heather Nicholls).

One of the people who attended the event said: "Richmond is a really beautiful place to work but sometimes I don't take the time to look and slowing down and looking today has helped that."

There will be events every Wednesday lunchtime over the next month, with the next one being yoga.

The event organiser, Louise Abbotts, from Be Richmond said: "Be well Wednesdays are part of a wider campaign by Be Richmond Business Improvement District to reconnect our community of employees after Covid. With hybrid working in full swing many of our office workers dread the commute in.

"We want to change all of that and make the office day something people look forward to. With 72% of office workers not taking a lunch break we have worked with our partners Soulhub to create a monthly programme of events every Wednesday at 12.30pm to get people away from their desks and enjoying everything that Richmond has to offer. From beautiful scenery to great local businesses. Working in Richmond has so much to offer so register online for walks, runs, yoga and more and connect with your tribe today."

The walk went from Richmond Green and along the river. (Photo Credit: Heather Nicholls).

Find out more about Be Well Wednesdays here.