Thousands of people are expected to take to the streets of the town this autumn for ‘Beat the Street’ — as schools, community groups and businesses compete against each other in a giant walking and cycling challenge.
Hailing the council initiative, Nithsdale Area Committee chairman Councillor Ronnie Nicholson said: “We are incredibly excited to be bringing Beat the Street to Dumfries and can’t wait to see how far everyone is able to walk, run, cycle and scoot during the six-week challenge.
“We have already seen hugely popular games in Annan, Dalbeattie and Stranraer.”
He added: “I will be getting my trainers on and taking part and I’m looking forward to seeing how far Dumfries will travel over the six weeks.
A total of 47 electronic ‘beat boxes’ are set to be located all around the town, running from August 30 to October 11.
Adults can pick up a card and children will receive a fob from their school, with the aim of walking, cycling or running between the boxes to scan cards and fobs to win points for their team or individual prizes.
More than 300,000 people took part in Beat the Street in 2016 in towns and cities across the UK.
And in 2015 beneficiaries included St Columba’s Primary School in Annan who were awarded £750 for the highest average points.
Beat the Street is run by Intelligent Health on behalf of Dumfries and Galloway Council as part of the Scottish Government Smarter Choices Smarter Places Initiative.
And part of the aim is to encourage people to explore Dumfries with their friends and family and discover something new about their area.
Councillor Nicholson said: “Anyone is able to get involved in Beat the Street — it’s completely free to play and is a great opportunity to go outdoors, spend time with your friends and family and get moving.
“Watch out for Beat Boxes appearing on a street near you.”
