Two years ago the first Bag o’ Chips walks around Perth for improved mental health began - now hundreds of people have been regularly going out with the group.
It all started in January 2021 and, at the time, there was a law about people gathering as strict lockdown rules were being enforced by police.
Many people were feeling isolated, frustrated and unhappy – prompting Craigie takeaway owner Pete Chan to call on Alex McClintock, organiser of Andys Man Club Perth, to suggest this was the perfect time to get people out in the open air and distancing so they would not feel alone.
“You have to understand, people were stuck at home, climbing the walls,” explained Pete.
“The idea of getting out for a wander round Perth made sense to me, and Alex agreed we should go ahead.
“Perth has a river and some nice walks through the park so all seemed perfect in theory.
“But we had to cancel the first attempt and take it on social media as it was pretty unclear if we were allowed to bring people together even though there were precautions being taken.
“I well remember getting a call from the police. They were not happy with the idea. Groups of people even outdoors was frowned on as a possible infection risk.
“The timing was bad as the idea to start this came just as new laws were passed at Holyrood. It was clear if police saw anything untoward, we’d get nicked.
“When we did go the following week, after a lot of phonecalls and research, we had 30-odd folk and seven dogs come along and the Bag o’ Chips weekly walk was a reality.”
Free chips, a can of pop and later some hot soup - all given by local businesses Pete knew through his China China takeaway - became the inclusive feature.
Friendships grew, people talked, people walked. There were bikes and mobility scooters and the walkers came out in all weathers.
Pete’s little dog Shorty became a mascot. Sadly the Chihuahua has passed on and Pete is sad not to have his tiny friend with him trotting around the South Inch any more.
“We get hundreds of people involved regularly now,” continued Pete. “Not the same ones every week, you can dip in and out as you wish, but the walks have become an established Wednesday morning fixture.
“I think we have definitely saved lives through this activity.
“It gave hope and something to look forward to during some very dark times.”
As the second anniversary of the Bag o’ Chips walks came up recently, Perth and Perthshire North MP Pete Wishart went along to show his support.
The walk is open to men and women, aged 18 and over. There’s no need to book or reserve, folk can just turn up and will be made to feel very welcome.
The walkers meet at Bell’s Sports Centre at the North Inch every Wednesday at 10am.
