An art and nature trail unveiled at the weekend offers walkers exercise for the mind and body.

The Sheppey Matters project was officially opened at Barton’s Point Coastal Park, off Marine Parade, Sheerness, on Saturday.

About 40 people walked the route. Artists and volunteers from the Island have produced signs identifying wildlife, plants, history and heritage.

The launch was part of Visit Kent’s Big Weekend festival which promotes popular attractions and hidden gems across the county.

Project co-ordinator Heather Thomas-Pugh said: “It went well. I was surprised really because the weather was so poor. The benefits are to do with improving people’s health because I think if there’s art to go and see, people are more likely to go out and have a walk and enjoy the countryside. A second benefit is to attract more visitors.”

The chairman of Visit Sheppey said a recent video tour of the Island uploaded by the group to YouTube, which has been shared widely on Facebook and received positive comments, has accrued more than 12,000 hits across multiple sites.