A CHANCE to blow the winter cobwebs away comes with a series of new walks for 2002 planned around the Darwen area.

A Winter Wander of three miles through Sunnyhurst Wood and beyond takes place on February 5. People should meet at Sunnyhurst at 1pm for the free guided walk.

And a gentle ramble around Edgworth and Jumbles Reservoir is on March 5, the meeting point being the Barlow Institute, Edgworth, at 1pm.

A ghost walk and evening of ghost stories to chill your spine takes place in Sunnyhurst Wood on March 19.

For more details and to book a ticket, call the council's Countryside Services on 55423.

Admission for the event is £3 for adults and £1 for under 16s.

The walks are arranged by the Countryside Services and Sports Development and are described as being of an easy to moderate pace.

Strong footwear and adequate protective clothing is recommended.

For more details on walks and events in 2002, call Countryside Services on 55423.