THE annual Purbeck Pledge, a project to boost physical and mental health, will be launched at Durlston Country Park next month.

It is being launched as part of the free 'Picnic in the Park' event.

Each year the Purbeck Pledge, which is supported by partners including Public Health Dorset, LiveWell Dorset, Active Dorset and Stepping into Nature, asks residents to embrace its theme for one month.

Previous years have included a pledge to give up alcohol for a month, and one to to walk a mile on a regular basis.

This year participants are being asked to get outdoors and boost wellbeing throughout May.

Maria Clarke, of Dorset Local Nature Partnership, said: "There is a lot of research which shows that spending time in nature improves wellbeing and that is why we are asking people to join the Purbeck Pledge as part of Naturally Healthy Month this May. ‘Picnic in the Park’ is one of the many events happening as part of the month which is encouraging people to get outside more and enjoy the county we live in."

People from all walks of life are being asked to make the most of the Purbeck outdoors and to consider how this can boost mental health and wellbeing.

The Purbeck Pledge launched at Durston Country Park, Saturday May 4, from 11am-3pm.