Stephen is a familiar face around Blackburn and he regularly clocks up five to ten miles a day as he walks around town.
The 57-year-old has learning difficulties but keeps himself busy since being made redundant by Remploy a few years ago.
He works as a volunteer cleaner and also walks into town as he is a member of social groups in town, including one that goes on regular walking trips!
He is well known, not least because his love of Elvis and Shakin’ Stevens means he has their tattoos on his arm!
Stephen said: “I’m at peace when I’m walking and it gives you time to think without any interruptions.
“I exercise when I’m at home too but walking is great for your health and keeps me active. Walking around town gives me the chance to see all the changes taking place.
“I walk round to friends every so often and I’ve got quite a few people who I have got to know and who will say ‘hello’ as I’m walking past.
“The only time I’m guaranteed to be in my flat is on a Saturday afternoon to listen to the football results and see how Blackburn Rovers have got on!”
Stephen has appeared as a model and a real-life example in a new advertising campaign to promote walking. 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.