Cartoon character on mission to make region more active

A BOLD new character is set to pop up across Dumfries and Galloway — and he’s on a mission to get people moving.

DG Domore is a cartoon mascot and the face of a major push to tackle inactivity, with scenes showing him and a cast of characters running, cycling and getting involved in community activities.

Residents are being urged to keep an eye out for DG Domore as he begins appearing across the region - helping point people towards simple, local ways to be more active.

Officials hope the campaign will bring fresh energy to the Dumfries and Galloway Physical Activity Strategy, launched with a warning from health officials that inactivity and low fitness levels can increase the risk of serious illness, injury and even hospital stays.

Lynne Mann, from Dumfries and Galloway’s Community Health and Social Care, believes the new character could make a real difference.

She said: “DG Domore gives the strategy something people can instantly recognise.

“He brings the message to life in a way that feels practical and achievable. When people see him out and about, taking part in everyday activities, it helps them think - I could do that, too.

“We’d encourage everyone to look out for DG Domore and follow where he leads; there are opportunities all around to get moving.”

Public health director Valerie White added: “We’ve set ambitious targets, but campaigns like this help make them real.

“Having a strong, visible identity like DG Domore means people are more likely to notice what’s on offer and feel encouraged to take part.

“Being active is one of the most important things we can do for our physical health, our mental wellbeing, and staying connected to others.”

Meanwhile, a physical activity forum has also been created, with a call for those with a local role in physical activity to get involved.

Anybody who is involved in the delivery of physical activity locally – whether that’s sport, movement, walking groups, dancing groups – is being encouraged to join the forum, hear about the strategy, and help in delivering its objectives.