Rossendale prides itself on its scenery, hills and the variety of walks it has to offer. This year the Rural Rossendale Walking Festival features ‘foodie’ walks which take in the best of Rossendale’s local food producers. The programme of walks takes place on the first weekend in October which coincides with Rossendale Farmers market on the 3rd October. So if you want to sample local produce and take in the unique working environment of the Rossendale countryside, contact Wendy Davison on: 07746 556337 or email: wendy.davison@btopenworld.com

Friday 01.10.10 - The Fudge Trudge. A circular route around Whitworth departing from Market Street through Healey Dell, across Brown Wardle Hill and back around Cowm Reservoir with a short stop at the Fudge Village to refuel.10 miles/16Km

Saturday 02.10.10. Swish and Chips. A circular route departing from The Bizzy Plaice, Edenfield (Taste Lancashire Highest Quality Award) walking over Scout Moor and viewing the largest on-shore wind farm in England to the top of Cowpe via Sandbeds Road and back to The Bizzy Plaice for Fish and Chips. 7 miles/11 km 10.00am £5.00

Saturday 02.10.10. Saturday Sarsaparilla Surprise. A surprise walk in the Rossendale Valley with special guest photographer imparting useful tips and hints; so bring your camera. Departing from the East Lancashire Railway Station at Rawtenstall, stopping off for a glass of Sarsaparilla at Fitzpatrick's Britain's last temperance bar. Free Sarsaparilla drops for all walkers. 4 miles/6km 10.00am £3.0016 km 10.00am £3.00

Sunday 03.10.10 The Cheese Breeze. A family friendly walk around Cronkshaw Fold Farm. Viewing the animals and learning all about farming in the Alden Valley. Lancashire Cheese samples for all walkers.2 miles/3km 10:00am Adults £3.00/Children Free

Sunday 03.10.10 The Soup Loop. A circular route departing from Bacup Leisure Hall taking in part of the Irwell Sculpture Trail, The Rossendale Way and the Pennine Bridleway. Stopping off en route for a delicious bowl of home-made soup at Peers Clough Farm. 12 miles/ 19km10:00 am £3.00

Monday 04.10.10 Black Pudding Plod. A circular route around Haslingden Grane Valley departing from Waterside Industrial Estate the home of the award winning Real Lancashire Black Pudding Company. Black pudding recipe leaflet for all participating walkers. 7 miles/11km 10.00am £3.00