Exeter Dementia Action Alliance’s Exeter Cosy Routes

Working alongside Dementia Carer & relentless marathon runner Jo Earlam & cartoonist Tony Husband, Exeter Dementia Action Alliance have come up with an innovative wellbeing project for the city.

The Exeter Cosy Route is a circular walk embracing the city:

“The choice of route was chosen to encompass the widest area of the city as possible, whilst accessing the safest pedestrian options. At some points the route follows the city boundary exactly, in others it weaves a path in and outside the border, giving views from all compass points back to towards the city. It was this embracing nature of the route, that inspired the title COSY, an acronym which stands for Circle of Somewhere Yours, or the idea that you’re walking or running around this central busy heart, which is the community and city of Exeter.”

EDAA are currently fundraising to help develop this ingenious project, if you would like to donate you can do so here

The website explains that the overall route of 26.2 miles was chosen as it’s the iconic marathon distance. “At a time when road and off-road races remain suspended, marathon runners may be looking for alternative self-guided options. For walkers/runners of shorter route ability it will be possible to complete the entire distance in stages, either by doing the exterior link sections or the choice of eight individual mostly circular routes from four to eight miles. The routes will all have their own character, points of interest, history and will be part of the unfolding and growing picture of the city. Each route has a dementia accessible option, which may be a short stroll, picnic stop, or viewpoint. As a full marathon distance, the COSY route format will differ from existing city marathon concepts, by being away from the centre, avoiding main roads, a run or walk to be undertaken in solace or small groups.”

Read more about this fantastic project, the route and how you can get involved here: https://exetercosyroutes.wordpress.com/