Pole to pole: a Nordic walking weekend in Herefordshire

This way of walking is great for keeping fit and, when combined with wonderful trails and pretty towns, it makes for a short break to take in your stride

It’s late afternoon on Kington rec, the pretty riverside cricket ground of the Herefordshire market town close to the Welsh border. I’m strutting around under the watchful gaze of guide Ali Allen, as she shouts instructions. “Roll from heel to toe, loosen the shoulders, swing those arms, plant the poles … good!”