AN OUTDOORS enthusiast is urging more people to get out and enjoy their local woodlands.

Muriel Cupples, 64, has been visiting her nearest woods regularly since she was a child and has fond memories of playing and making dens in the trees.

Nowadays she walks in Castlemilk woods, near her home in Croftfoot, at least twice a week and encourages her young grandchildren to make the most of the outdoors.

She wants more people to get healthy in 2014 and explore their local woods.

Castlemilk is one of 14 Commonwealth Woods in and around Glasgow which regularly host events for people of all ages and interests.

Recent research found 70% of residents near a Commonwealth Wood are aware of local woodland but only a third of them use it regularly.

The Commonwealth Woods project aims to get more people out enjoying the fresh air.

Muriel said: "I'm very lucky to have such a beautiful wood on my doorstep.

"It's bursting with ancient trees, flowers, wildlife and there's even a lovely waterfall. I know the woods well as I spent most of my childhood playing here with friends.

"Back then I explored the woods the way any child would - climbing trees, building dens and fishing for tadpoles. It was great fun."

Since Muriel retired she has rekindled her love of the outdoors and takes part in regular events organised in the park.

She said: "This has been helped by the huge number of events and activities that take place at Castlemilk Wood every week - and even better, they're all absolutely free.

"There are so many to choose from, including archaeological digs, guided health walks, photography groups and foraging events where you can discover edible nuts, berries and mushrooms.

"I've brought my grandchildren along to a couple of the family events and they loved it.

"I hope others are encouraged to take advantage of a great outdoor space that's right on their doorstep.

"If you make one New Year's resolution, make sure it's to rediscover your local wood. You won't regret it."

The network of Commonwealth Woods are to be a ­legacy of the Glasgow 2014 Games to increase use of and community pride in local green spaces and improve the quality of life for local communities.

The new £5million Cuningar woodland park opposite the Commonwealth Games Athletes' Village and Cathkin Braes, the venue for the mountain biking, are both part of the project as well as woods in Easterhouse, Parkhead, Drumchapel and Airdrie.

Hugh McNish, Forestry Commission Scotland's health advisor for the central belt, said: "Don't let the weather at this time of year put you off visiting your local wood.

"Woods in the winter can be beautiful places, especially if they're glistening in the snow.

"So wrap up warm and explore your local wood."

nFor more information about events visit www.commonwoods.org.uk

matty.sutton@eveningtimes.co.uk