‘And don’t forget the cake’ – Your top tips for first-time challengers

Just starting your maiden 1000-mile adventure? Heed these words of wisdom from those who have been there, done that, and are doing it again...

If you're new to walking daily, don't try to walk too far at first. Build up the daily distance gradually. You'll soon catch up as your fitness improves. Natalie Covill

Find ways to build the challenge into your day. I used to walk to and from the station on the way to work, half-an-hour each way. Michelle Chapman

Find the ‘walking world’ that works for you. For some it’s short walks everyday; for others, long weekend hikes best fit their schedule. Find what makes you fall in love with walking, and the miles will fly by. Alex Allen

Give yourself a reward every 100 miles (or for achieving a monthly target). Helen Percy

Your walk, your miles. It's not a race against anyone but yourself. Kevin Gasston

Look around you, smell the air, feel the elements and enjoy the sensations. Michael Crouch

Don’t be afraid to get involved on the Facebook page. Posting your walks, commenting on other people’s posts, and generally socialising within the group boosts morale and enhances the overall walking experience. Cath Pryce

If you ever feel as if there's no way forward – talk. Don't ever forget that you're not alone here, and we're totally inclusive. Steve Day

Make sure you have a good and comfortable pair of boots, and decent socks.Steve Mann

Learn to wee wildly! [We assume this means ‘in the wild’, rather than ‘ferociously’] Karen Edwards

Take a camera and look for something special on your walk. Upload your photo and share your story with the Facebook group. Viv Wilde

Don't be daunted by poor results for the first few weeks. The challenge is for a whole year – 52 weeks – and that includes SUMMER. Marion Knight

There are subgroups for local areas. Join those and it may help you find people to meet with nearby. Erica Thompson

Always take snacks. And spare snacks. Possibly also a flask of tea. Rosalie Greaves

...And don’t forget the cake! Salyen Dick