Staff across the organisation became more active thanks to a challenge which saw them compete to virtually trek across California.

The ‘Walk California’ challenge saw teams of up to five take part in a six week challenge to track their steps so see how far they could walk.

One participant was administrator Isobel Milligan, who won a FitBit from Healthy Working Lives (HWL)  after completing their lifestyle survey.

Isobel says that, by winning her FitBit and taking part in the walking challenge, she is beginning to change her life for the better.

Isobel said: “I was looking to lose weight and get more active. I had asked for a FitBit from my husband for Christmas, but ended up being really lucky and winning one instead.

“When I spotted the Walk California challenge, I was quick to sign up. I didn’t have a team to participate with so I decided to run with it on my own.

“My job usually sees me sitting at my desk for the majority of the day. However, I now make sure to get up at breaks and go for a walk.

“During the challenge, I doubled the number of steps that I normally did and walked between five and seven miles a day.”

The challenge had such a positive impact on Isobel that she decided to quit smoking to increase her ability to walk.

She added: “I now have breath to walk further and I haven’t needed to use my inhaler since I stopped smoking. It’s a massive change for me.”

Isobel’s motivation has even rubbed off on her husband who has joined her on her healthy campaign.

Isobel added: “Since winning the FitBit, I have lost seven and a half pounds. Now that the challenge is over, I am determined to keep my level of fitness up.

“It has helped me to change my life.”