A WALKING enthusiast whose passion for perambulation was cut short following major surgery is making the first steps towards starting a rambling club.

A replacement knee operation two-and-a-half years ago stopped Douglas Milne's hiking exploits in their tracks but he is appealing for people in a similar situation to get together and find a way to enjoy walking once more.

"I couldn't run for a bus but I can still walk," he said.

"The concept is that we walk as quickly as the slowest walker walks.

"I just want to drum up interest in other people who have had knee or hip operations.

"There must be other people in my situation who used to be active but have had surgery."

Douglas, a retired police officer who lives in Northwich, picked up a series of knee injuries playing rugby for the Metropolitan police, which eventually led to the surgery.

In the past he has walked the North Cornwall Coastal Path, Coast to Coast, the Pennine Way and the West Highland Way.

"I just enjoyed the outdoor experience," he said.

"It's lovely to go somewhere where there is no mobile signal, it's total escapism.

"This is why I feel there are people out there who have had hip or knee replacements but would still love to go out walking.

"You feel you're a bit vulnerable if you go our by yourself but it's better with other people."

Douglas, who is married and in his early 50s, works full time as a concierge at The Mere Golf Resort and Spa, in Knutsford.

"I'm not going to use the word disabled because I don't believe I am," he said.

"I am in a full time occupation, standing on my feet eight hours a day.

"This club is for people that really want to get out there and don't know how to, it's a reach-out."

Anyone interested in joining Douglas or finding out more should email him on douglas99.milne@gmail.com