WinG's over-55 group members prepare to step out in their Bridgedale socks

Members of a Tyneside charity that offers outdoor activities will be able to walk in comfort thanks to a donation from sock brand Bridgedale.

The Northern Ireland company has given 500 pairs of its walking socks to WinG, which helps disadvantaged people enjoy the outdoors.

The Gateshead organisation – Wayout in Gateshead – provides a variety of activities including rock-climbing, hillwalking and map reading, camping, mountain biking and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme.

Activities can last from half a day to several consecutive days, helping young people develop in the outdoors, and for older groups to meet new people and stay active.

As part of the scheme, WinG also offers free outdoor equipment to ensure individuals are protected against the elements and stay safe under the guidance of its experienced instructors.

Nick Coates, senior instructor at WinG, said: “It is essential for our increasing number of members to be kitted out in the right outdoor equipment, ensuring they fully enjoy and appreciate their chosen outdoor activity.

“Having comfortable feet is vital to each experience and Bridgedale’s renowned socks will guarantee performance over different terrains and in all weather conditions, for those who may have never experienced outdoor activities before.”

Carolyn Dunn, sales and marketing manager at Bridgedale, said: “It’s great to see organisations such as WinG encouraging more people to enjoy the great outdoors through activities such as hillwalking and climbing.

“We really appreciate the great work the team does and it’s great to know our socks are guaranteeing participants have comfortable feet mile after mile.”

The Newtonards firm has 100 years of knitting expertise. Bridgedale’s Fusion Technology blends synthetic and natural fibres to ensure a high level of performance.