A STUDENT who has been instrumental in getting West Fifers out in the fresh air and enjoying some exercise has won a national award.

Shannon Harris was recognised recently at the Scottish Student Sports Awards for her work in setting up and running a walking group for students and the Rosyth community.

Shannon was successful in the Scottish Student Sports (SSS) Inclusive Awards category, which celebrated individuals or clubs that made a significant effort to make their club more accessible and available to everyone.

She was given the award after helping to set up the ‘Best Foot Forward Rosyth’ club, which gives college students and members of the community a chance to get outside, meet new people and stay active while walking in and around the Rosyth area.

The group is an extension of Best Foot Forward Dunfermline, which has been going for some years, and, together with them, Shannon created hour-long walking routes around Rosyth. Since being established in March this year, more than 300 people have taken part.

Speaking after her award win, the Fife College student said: “I was absolutely over the moon when I was told I’d won this award.

“Being a walk leader for the Best Foot Forward group has been so much fun and helps so many people, so to be recognised for this is amazing.

“Best Foot Forward has done a lot of good work over so many years in Dunfermline and now in Rosyth in making sure that as many people as possible get the chance to socialise and stay active during what’s been a difficult time for all of us.

“I have been on some stunning walks in all kinds of weather since March and I’m so happy that the hundreds of people who have joined us since then have enjoyed being part of it.

“It is a privilege to be a part of such an amazing group and we aim to continue our work over the coming months and look forward to helping people enjoy the great Dunfermline and Rosyth countryside for many years to come.”

Anyone looking to take part in one of the Best Foot Forward walks in Rosyth or in Dunfermline can find meeting times posted on their Facebook group.