The Balham to Tooting Bec trail has been launched.

The trail took attendees on an historical tour of Balham High Road for the first time on Saturday, April 28.

The tour included an oral history podcast telling the story of people who lived and worked on the road as well as a hand drawn map.

The trail began at 12pm and lasted for 1 hour and 30 minutes, stopping at 18 historic locations along the half a mile stretch from Balham Station to Tooting Bec.

More than 80 people attended the guided walk, using their smartphones and MP3 players to listen to the podcast.

Participants thoroughly enjoyed the walk, with comments including: “A most enjoyable tour of Balham, extremely informative and full of fascinating Facts on our doorstep. Highly recommended to all locals and tourists visiting London” and “An amazingly well presented piece of local history - a great collaborative effort.”

Councillors Sarah McDermott from Nightingale ward and Fleur Anderson from Bedford ward were in attendance, as well as comedian Arthur Smith who features on the podcast.

The day was ended with celebrations at The White Eagle Club, Balham High Road, who provided a selection of cakes and drinks.

The walk was devised by The Neighbourhood Network SW12 and SW17, a community group by and for the people living or working between Balham and Tooting Bec.

Sue Pidgeon, a member of the Neighbourhood Network said: “It was a fantastic turnout and a great launch for the Balham to Tooting Bec trail we were so pleased to see those who had taken part, friends and family and lots of people who had heard about it on Twitter and Instagram.

“It was wonderful to see everyone going down the High Road, stopping at the sights, looking at the map and listening to the Podcast. And now it is out there for everyone to use and now we hope that lots of others will use the map and Podcast, to find out more about this fascinating part of Wandsworth.”

The self-guided walk is open for everyone to use, suitable for residents and visitors alike. You can access the podcast at www.neighbourhoodnetworksw17.org.uk or download it via SoundCloud or ITunes.

The hand drawn map can be downloaded at the Neighbourhood Network website or collected from Balham library or local shops.