WALKERS from Wharfedale have joined broadcaster Claire Balding for a trek that will feature in a new radio series.

Walkers are Welcome Otley chairman Randal Metzger and fellow steering group member John Sparshatt were interviewed by the sports presenter as they accompanied her on a jaunt through North Yorkshire.

The interviews, recorded on August 12, will feature in the Radio 4 Ramblings series - about walking the Dales Way from Ilkley to Windermere - that is set to be broadcast in September and October.

Mr Metzger said: "What a great day out with such a special person.

"It was a joy to share our knowledge and experiences with Claire and we look forward to listening to the six-part series over the next two months.

"We covered everything from when we became interested in walking to our many journeys along the Dales Way, the equipment needed for walks, our excitement and appreciation of the Yorkshire countryside, and the friendships we have developed through walking.

"We also spoke of the influences on our families to take up outdoor pursuits and the role of the Long Distance Walking Association, which John chairs, and the work of Walkers are Welcome Otley."

Claire Balding will visit Wharfedale in October when she promotes her new book, Walking Home, at the 2014 Ilkley Literary Festival.