Published Date: Jun 2nd, 2025
Kelty Walks and Talks marked a significant milestone on Monday 26 May as members, supporters, and guests gathered at Kelty Community Centre to celebrate the group’s third anniversary.
The event began with the official launch of the Kelty Walking Action Plan—a new local strategy aimed at encouraging even more people to get active, explore the area, and enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of walking. The plan sets out practical actions and ambitions to make walking in and around Kelty easier, safer and more accessible for everyone.
Following the launch, attendees enjoyed a group walk around Kelty before returning to the Community Centre for refreshments and a well-deserved celebration of the group’s success.
To mark the occasion, all members were presented with a certificate recognising their efforts and achievements as part of the walking group over the past three years. In a special moment, Councillor Alex Campbell also presented Margaret Pollock, one of the group leaders, with a Certificate for Outstanding Contribution in recognition of her dedication and commitment as a volunteer.
The event was attended by Fife Council Chief Executive, Ken Gourlay, and Cowdenbeath Area Convenor, Cllr Alex Campbell, who congratulated the group on their continued impact in the community.
Cllr Campbell said:“Kelty Walks and Talks is a fantastic example of how local people, supported by partners, can come together to create something that truly benefits the community. It’s great to see the group continue to grow and evolve, and I’m particularly pleased to see the launch of a new Walking Action Plan which will support even more people to get outdoors, connect and keep active. I was especially honoured to present Margaret Pollock with a Certificate for Outstanding Contribution – a well-deserved recognition of her incredible work as a volunteer and group leader.”
This year also saw Kelty Walks and Talks merge with the Council’s ‘Bums Off Seats’ programme, strengthening local support and resources to help even more residents take their first steps into regular walking.
Margaret Pollock, Group Leader, said:“It’s been amazing to see how far the group has come in three years. What started as a way for a few of us to get out and walk together has grown into a supportive and welcoming community. The new Walking Action Plan is such a positive step forward, and we’re really proud to be part of it. Whether people come along for the exercise, the company, or just a change of scenery – everyone’s made to feel welcome. I was really touched to receive the Outstanding Contribution award — it means so much to be recognised, but I truly see it as something we’ve all achieved together.”
One of the group’s highlights in recent months was a trip to the Japanese Gardens on Monday 28 April, where members enjoyed a guided tour and learned about the site's fascinating history, including its restoration after severe vandalism in the past. The trip complemented learning completed as part of a Nature Award undertaken in Summer 2024, and was a thoroughly enjoyable experience for all involved—many of whom plan to return for future visits.
Kelty Walks and Talks continues to meet fortnightly on Monday afternoons, with walks leaving from Kelty Community Centre at 1.30pm (meeting from 1.15pm). The group welcomes new members of all ages and abilities to come along, enjoy the outdoors, and have a blether along the way.
