WITH foot and mouth disease keeping the ramblers from the countryside, one determined bunch of walkers headed to the city for their exercise.

Almost 50 members of the Peterlee Rambling Club headed to York at the weekend for a stroll around - some light relief during a "very frustrating" time for the group.

"There is little we can do in the countryside at the moment," said social secretary Brian Oram.

"But to keep the group together and keep attendance up we decide to head down to York.

"It is a great alternative, we still get to do our walking while hearing all about the wonderful history of this magnificent city."

The group were taken on a tour of the walls and through the Shambles by brickie-turned-tour guide Keith Mulhearn.

Keith, who runs Roamin' Tours of York, was recommended by the York Tourism Bureau after the enquiry from the ramblers.

"I am happy to take them around," said Keith, whose business has been on the up as York benefits from the unavailability of the countryside.

"There is plenty to see in the city and I have tailored them a special tour."

The group were originally interested in a coach tour but were persuaded to take the walking tour instead.

"This is just one example of the large number of enquiries that we have received from hiking or rambling groups who looking for alternative options," said York Tourism Bureau chief executive Gillian Cruddas.

"Whilst we are spreading the news that many of Yorkshire's visitor attractions are now open, we are still inundated with enquiries from groups who want to do city walks."

Updated: 09:12 Monday, April 23, 2001