WE are not grey-haired ramblers. That is the message from the Hampshire 20s and 30s Walking Group that goes against the typical rambler stereotype.

Made up of young professionals from across the county, the group has turned long walks into a great social outing complete with fine food and the odd bevy.

Every weekend there is a different route to take, enjoying a leisurely pace with like-minded people from a whole variety of different backgrounds and lifestyles.

With 150 members, the group go out at least three Sundays and one Saturday a month, almost always stopping off at the pub or a teashop or two, where the drink stops become just as important as the walks themselves.

They have a regular monthly social programme in addition to the walking, with short-breaks away, summer parties and sports, making it impossible not to find friends and some even finding their true love.

Group chairman Rob Renshaw, 36, joined five years ago. He said: “The idea is to just let people know that we are not a grey-haired rambling group.

“For many of us we joined the group because we were new to the area, didn’t have much money to spare but wanted to meet new people and explore our surroundings.

“A great thing about the set up is that you can take part as much or as little as you want and if you cannot make it some weeks, you can just join in the next time you are free. There’s no strict commitment needed, you can pick it up when you can.

“The social side is fantastic. For me the walking has almost taken a backseat because now I go to meet my friends, go to the pub and then the walking after is an added bonus.

“The group is so diverse and people make friends for life. Some have even found their spouse. We have had four marriages within the group in its eight year history.”

If you fancy putting your best foot forward and joining the group email hants2030s @yahoogroups.com.