WHILE some people nursed a hangover after welcoming in the new year, others decided to venture outdoors for a dose of nature.

High Woods Country Park in Colchester held its traditional New Year’s Day walk through the beauty spot which attracted dozens of people of all ages.

The three-mile hike ended with festive treats of mulled wine and mince pies.

First-time walker, councillor Julie Young, is now an advocate for the annual and weekly walks.

She said: “Although I went on my own, I walked alongside someone who had been going for the past three years and there were plenty of people to chat with.

“It was a sociable way to start the year and hopefully, I’ll continue getting myself back to full fitness after I broke my foot last year.

“I’m grateful to be able to walk so to be able to complete a three-mile walk feels good to me.”

As well as nature being a known mood lifter, the walk serves as a way to make new connections and to explore one of the town’s best-loved parks.

Mrs Young added: “To walk the whole site of High Woods, it’s quite extensive, which you don’t realise.

“I’d encourage everyone to take part and will probably look to do another one in the future too.”

For more details, visit highwoodscountrypark.co.uk or call 01206 282920.