A HIKER has started recording his journeys to encourage others to attempt outdoor walks. 

Ian Seville, a retired police officer, has been sharing his treks on social media in the hope of inspiring members of the community to participate in hikes of their own. 

The posts show distance recordings, reviews, starting points, and even parking costs of each hike around the area. 

Ian has since been invited to share his passion with other members in Newton-le-Willows. 

READ>Glass worker suffered life-changing injuries after falling through roof

He said: "Since retiring, I have spent a lot of my time simply trekking around local routes and trails, and weeks away with a group of old colleagues to places such as the Pembrokeshire Coast, the west of Scotland and the Outer Hebrides. 

"The basic idea is simply to help and encourage people to get out and get walking by giving them the information that will help them.

"I am also quite an experienced photographer, so I record the route and post photos of interest and copies of route maps."

The former police officer also previously worked at the local Mountain Rescue Team which saw him work in unpleasant outdoor environments.

The walking enthusiast has received positive feedback from members of the community, with some already asking Ian for advice on challenging hikes.

Ian added: "Quite a few people asked about where I go, how to get there, and kit needed, so I was shown how to post my routes on Facebook."

Ian has already completed walks around the area, including a couple of routes up near the East Lancs Road, Pennington Flash, Carr Mill Dam, and the Nine Arches. 

St Helens Star: Ian recorded his hike around Pennington Flash Ian recorded his hike around Pennington Flash

The 71-year-old also mentioned how he ensures that each walk is a loop route, as he explained that many walkers forget the fatigue that follows on their journey back.

He said: "I will always use a loop route, rather than an out-and-back as it is easy for older or inexperienced walkers to over reach themselves.

"You forget every time you walk, you walk an extra mile back."

Ian's recordings are found on local community groups on Facebook.