A group of older citizens and their families in Pembrokeshire are setting a great example in the challenge to create an active Wales.

The Steps2Health group, aged between their 50s and 90s, spend each week walking the beaches, paths and byways of Pembrokeshire as part of the Welsh Assembly Government's Let's Walk Cymru programme, which is managed by Pembrokeshire County Council and funded through the Sports Council for Wales.

The members of this group are setting the sort of example the Welsh Assembly Government is hoping to create right across Wales, as it launches a public consultation on its Physical Activity Action Plan.

In a bid to improve people's health and combat obesity, the Welsh Assembly Government is challenging everyone to lead more active lives because regular physical activity is proven to improve people's health and wellbeing and increase productivity.

As part of the challenge, the Welsh Assembly Government is developing an action plan and is inviting the people Wales to give their views on the priorities for the next five years.

Minister for Heritage, Alun Ffred Jones, a keen cyclist and chair of Nantlle Vale Football Club in Gwynedd, said: "The Assembly Government wants to support the Welsh population to be physically active on a daily basis because of the health, social and economic benefits it provides.

"In order to provide that support, we need to find even more effective ways for different organisations across the public, private and Third Sector to work together and to better educate and engage individuals in sport, physical activity and active recreation.  

"We have developed a physical activity action plan, called 'Creating an Active Wales', with a wide range of organisations and are now running a consultation to ensure everyone has an opportunity to contribute."

Barbara Stredder, from Tenby, our own Friday Fun correspondent, is one member of the group to have seen the benefits of regular physical activity. 

She said: "I've joined lots of different things in my life but nothing quite like this. Mentally and physically, you go home and you don't care if it's been dull, miserable weather because you've been out, you've had your exercise and a laugh and a chat. 

"I think everyone can find a physical activity to enjoy and I'm pleased the Welsh Assembly Government is taking positive steps to try and improve people's daily lives through this plan."