Hampshire Constabulary is continuing its series of walks in the New Forest aimed at people concerned about walking on their own.

The force has teamed up with Forestry England for the Walking in Partnership Beat Surgeries.

Posting on social media, New Forest Police said: “We often hear from people who love the Forest but don’t feel comfortable walking on their own for lots of different reasons.

“One lady told us ‘I am an adult female and love the New Forest, but mainly see it through driving and having a picnic as I don’t feel comfortable walking there alone’.”

Forestry England rangers host the walks which are aimed at encouraging solo walkers and those people who don’t feel comfortable walking alone to spend time in the forest in a safe and relaxed setting.

The Walking in Partnership events are also an opportunity to ask officers about policing in the area and hear the latest safety and crime prevention advice.

The next walk is scheduled for Saturday 19 September, at Stoney Cross Plain car park (///welfare.ferrying.forgotten). A ranger will be providing information about the area’s history during World War 2.