Having been a regular walker over the years, Farmeen knows all about the health benefits of getting out and about in the fresh air.
The 39-year-old is visually impaired so walking also prevents her from feeling isolated and provides her with independence and allows her to venture forth on her own so she can complete her volunteering work in Blackburn.
She said: “I probably walk a couple of miles a day and it is a great way to stay fit and healthy.
“I have friends who I walk with sometimes so it is a good way of enjoying other people’s company too. I can meet people I know and have a good chat.”
Walking has also helped increase Farmeen’s confidence and she now also takes the bus into town sometimes.
She said: “Talking to people and knowing that my friends will be on the bus has helped build my confidence.
“The drivers are nice and people are always willing to help with things like making sure I know when it is my stop, which can be difficult for me, especially in the dark.
“It is nice to meet people I have got to know and have a chat but I wouldn’t let it replace my walking completely, as I like it too much.”
Farmeen has appeared as a model and a real-life example in a new advertising campaign to promote walking and using the bus. It is being delivered by the Council’s Connect project to help promote sustainable transport.
The campaign has been brought to life and printed onto giant bus shelter posters across the borough.
Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Connect project was set up to promote and encourage sustainable transport in the borough. It aims to help reduce congestion on the borough’s roads. It works alongside six main employers including, Royal Blackburn Hospital, Blackburn with Darwen Council, Capita, Barbara Castle Way Health Centre, Evolution Park and Blackburn College.