A WINTER walk has just got easier thanks to a handy new booklet offering tips on walking, cycling and special events taking place in the great outdoors this season.

The 2006/07 Guided Walks booklet, produced by Hampshire County Council, includes more than 600 walks, three cycle rides and 69 events taking place between now and March.

A 10-mile (six-hour) circular walk starting along the edge of the downs, south of Kingsclere, and ending with a late pub lunch in Ecchinswell takes place on Thursday, December 7, at 10.30am.

Or, for a more leisurely stroll, join Audrey Moss-Bradman on Sunday, December 17, at 10.30am, for a Christmas walk around Oakley - again ending up in a pub.

For those who prefer the town to the countryside, the booklet also offers a list of urban walks.

The county council's executive member for recreation and heritage, Councillor Margaret Snaith, said: "Many people take advantage of the county's walks in the summer, but don't think to enjoy it in the winter, but winter is just as good a time as any."

The Guided Walks booklet is available from Countryside Parks, libraries, Hampshire County Council Information Centres, or by visiting www.hants.gov.uk/walking