Sefton’s Winter Walking & Cycling Newsletter Issue 54 / Jan – Mar 2020

ALL OUR Walks & Rides You’ll love our ARE FREE Winter walks and rides

1 Weekend Walks Walks on a Sunday Sunday afternoon, fortnightly, In Focus, 2.00pm – 90 minutes Join us on a Sunday from 2.00pm onwards on a walk that keeps you moving! We meet why not every fortnight at different locations across Sefton. To enjoy a new route every fortnight – just follow the leader. try… The walks last 1½ hours and will include inclines, sand dunes, canal towpaths and the beach plus woodland paths and fields No booking required, depending on where you are in Sefton. Nordic Walks We all know that adults should be doing just turn up on the day Saturday mornings, 150 minutes of physical activity each week, with this walk you are well on your way to and get walking. fortnightly, 10.30am that target with 90 minutes at a good 60 minutes intensity. (More info Page 17) Try one of our Nordic Walks, walk faster, work harder and enjoy what our borough has on offer. The majority of our walks are every week and you have NEW WALK STARTING a choice of locations try. THIS JANUARY 2020 Nordic Walking can be done by anybody, anywhere and does not require expensive equipment or clothing. Dobbies Nordic Walking uses poles in order to add two major benefits to walking: Health Walks » The use of poles means the upper Thursday mornings, weekly, body muscles are used as well as the legs 9.15am – 45 minutes » The poles help to propel the walker We meet at Dobbies, Kew every along – this means he/she works Thursday morning. Walking at a gentle harder than usual yet the support pace to begin with, building up gradually given by the poles makes it feel easier! through the weeks. Perfect for anyone who wants to start walking regularly for a short You will need to do a training course time and at gentle pace. before you join one of the groups so please check page 18 for details and Walks start on Thursday 23rd January. book yourself a place. (More info Page 14) Regular walking means more. 2 3 Contents Walking Cycling Walks in focus NEW 2 Cycling Diary 26 Walking Diary 5 Hesketh Centre 27 Monday 6 Macmillan Rides 27 Health Walks Tour de Friends 28 Netherton Feelgood Factory Health Walks The Chain Gang 29 ALL OUR Crosby Health Walks Tyred Rides 30 Health Walks Walks Pedal Away 31 ARE FREE Tuesday 8 Churchtown Health Walks Health Walks Walking Diary Hesketh Health Walks Introduction This Winter keep on being active, Pinewoods Health Walks Active Walks is Sefton’s Just turn up to join our walks but Macmillan Health Walks it may be cold outside but you will please arrive 15 minutes early for your Waterloo Health Walks feel the warmth when you move local health walk first walk as you will need to fill in Wednesday 10 more. There are plenty of walks programme and offers a Registration Form. To assist you the walks are graded: Wednesday Social Walks to choose from, and bike rides too, a significant number Grade 1: suitable for people who have not Seaforth Health Walks all led by qualified leaders who walked much before. Sports Park Walking Club of regular walking groups want you to enjoy taking part and Grade 2: suitable for people who are looking Sefton Trailblazers come back for more. The walks across Sefton. The walks to increase their activity levels. Thursday 13 and bike rides are free and take continue throughout Grade 3: for people looking for more May Logan Health Walks place every week of the year, the year and are led challenging walks. Ainsdale Sands and Sea Health Walks apart from Christmas and New Special Interest walks: health walks with a twist. Walking for Health in Hesketh Park by volunteers. Progressional walks: for people who have Year holiday period. Formby Pool Health Walks The walks range from 10 to 30 minutes undertaken Walking for Health Grade 3 walks Dobbies Health Walks up to 90 minutes for the Walking for Health and are now looking to take their next steps. Prambles – Southport walks and 90 to 150 minutes for walks Please note: Please attend a Grade 3 walk before joining a Progressional Walk. Friday 15 beyond Walking for Health. Walking is the perfect exercise as it places Progressional Walks: brisk pace, varied Southport & Formby Macmillan Health Walks terrain, can include stiles/steps/gradients Dunes Health Walks little stress upon bones and joints but uses over 200 muscles within the body and can and uneven surfaces. Southport Central Health Walks help develop and maintain fitness. Guide dogs are allowed on all health walks. Sefton OPERA Health Walks Saturday 17 Kings Gardens Health Walks Sunday 17 Sunday Health Walks

Nordic Walks 18

Walking & Cycling News 20

4 5 Maghull Health Walks 6th Jan: Sefton Meadows Crosby Health Walks 13th Jan: Rimrose Valley 20th Jan: Hartley’s 27th Jan: Festival Gardens Walk leaders: Sheila, Chris, Sue Walk leaders: Beryl and Sue to Aigburth (via prom) † and Veronica 3rd Feb: Village Diner Time: 10.30am Time: 10.00am 17th Feb: Coach and Horses Place: Crosby Library (foyer), 10th Feb: Hall Road to Waterloo † Place: Maghull Health Centre 2nd Mar: The Alt Crosby Rd North, Crosby L22 0LQ 24th Feb: Round the Wall (Little

MONDAY (outside building), L31 0DJ 16th Mar: Frank Hornby (unless otherwise stated). Crosby) † MONDAY The Maghull walks will take around We meet on the second and fourth 9th Mar: Waterloo Wander 90 minutes to complete. The walks Monday of each month, except for 23rd Mar: Sefton Park † are based around the rural areas Bank Holidays. We sometimes use of Maghull/Sefton and so public transport so walks marked suitable clothing and footwear with (†) require a travel pass or cash. will be required. The group use We leave the Library promptly at local cafes to have a tea/coffee 10.30am (unless otherwise stated) stop and a chat. when transport is involved, or you can meet us at Waterloo Train Stn to catch the 10.40am train in either direction.

Ainsdale Health Walks Jan: 13th | 20th | 27th Netherton Feelgood 13th Jan: 4 Bridges and 2 Parks 20th Jan: Edge Lane Farm Walk leaders: Alasdair and Paul Feb: 3rd | 10th | 17th | 24th Factory Health Walks 27th Jan: Copy Farm Park Time: 11.00am Mar: 2nd | 9th | 16th | 23rd Walk leader: Billy 3rd Feb: Stand Park Place: MeCycle Café (next to 30th Time: 10.00am 10th Feb: The Barn Owl in Ainsdale Train Stn), PR8 3HH Place: Feelgood Factory, Glovers Lane, Jubilee Woods The Ainsdale walk is a medium Netherton L30 5QW 17th Feb: Rimrose Valley walk lasting for around 60 minutes, The Feelgood Factory walk is a 24th Feb: Canal to Ormskirk Road the group passes through the dunes so sensible footwear suitable for medium walk of around 60 minutes. 2nd Mar: The Criddle Estate walking through dunes is advised. The walking routes vary each week 9th Mar: Sefton and The group finishes with a chat and taking in local parks and The Leeds Wishing Well a coffee in the Mecycle Café Liverpool Canal. 16th Mar: Litherland Park Estate afterwards. All the walks start and finish at the 23rd Mar: Canal to Melling Road Feelgood Factory. 30th Mar: St Benet’s Chapel

6 7 Churchtown Health Walks Jan: 14th | 28th Hesketh Park Health Walks Jan: 21st Feb: 11th | 25th Feb: 4th | 18th (formerly Box Tree Health Walks) Walk leaders: Sally and Veronica Mar: 10th | 24th Mar: 3rd | 17th Walk leaders: Sally and Peggy Time: 1.30pm Time: 10.30am Place: Hesketh Park Place: Corner Sunny Road, (corner of Albert Rd/Park Rd

TUESDAY Peaky Blinders entrance), PR9 9LN TUESDAY (unless otherwise stated). The Hesketh Park walk is a short walk A short walk of 30 minutes, at of 45 minutes, gentle pace, taking in a gentle pace around Churchtown, views of the lake, wildlife and gardens. including Botanic Gardens and the community gardens. Formby Pinewoods All the walks use the pinewoods and coastal footpaths, there Bootle Health Walks 18th Feb: Ladygreen Lap Health Walks will be sandy paths and gentle Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Walk leaders: Anne, Margaret and John inclines throughout the route. Walk leaders: Anne, Delia, Helen, Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am Time: 10.30am Jan: 14th | 21st | 28th Sandra, Linda, Mary and Noreen at North Park (No.47 bus stop) Place: Pinewoods Pub (front) on Feb: 4th |11th |18th |25th Time: Meeting times vary – see listings 25th Feb: Port Sunlight Wicks Green (off Rd), L37 1PR Mar: 3rd|10th |17th |24th Place: Meeting points vary – see listings Time/Place: 9.30am corner of The Pinewoods Walk is a medium 31st The Bootle walks are a medium walk Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00 walk that will take around 75 minutes and the group will cover distances of at Bootle New Strand Train Stn to complete at a steady pace. between 2–4 miles each week depending (L’pool platform) on location and enjoy a variety of routes 3rd Mar: Ormskirk Town Macmillan Jan: 14th | 21st | 28th across Sefton and beyond. Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/ Health Walks Feb: 4th |11th |18th |25th Don’t forget travel fare or pass! Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am at Orrell Mar: 3rd|10th |17th |24th Walk leader: Dave, Glenda, Veronica, Park Train Stn 31st NB: Bootle walks are unsuitable for dogs. Lynda and Tom 10th Mar: New Brighton (Crocus Walk) 14th Jan: Hesketh Park Time/Place: 10.30am Macmillan Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/ Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/ Information & Support Centre, Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00 at Bootle New Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00 at Bootle New 20 Stanley St, S’port PR9 0BY Strand Train Stn (L’pool platform) Strand Train Station (S’port platform). 17th Mar: Croxteth Park A short walk around the gardens, 21st Jan: Cressington Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/ pier and Marine Lake, returning Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/Park Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am at 61 Bus to the centre for a cuppa and Ln, Bootle or 10.00am at Bootle New Stop, Moss Ln a chat. Strand Train Stn (L’pool platform). 24th Mar: Liverpool Locks 28th Jan: Hall Road to Hightown Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/ 7th Jan: Croxteth Hall Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/Park Waterloo Health Walks Park Ln, Bootle or 10.15am Hugh Baird 14th Jan: Southport Ln, Bootle or 10.00am at Bootle New Walk leader: Chris College, corner of Stanley Rd 21st Jan: to Ainsdale Strand Train Stn (S’port platform) Time: 10.30am 31st Mar: Halsall 28th Jan: Cressington 4th Feb: Chester River Walk Place: Inside Sefton Carers Centre, Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/ 4th Feb: Stanley Park Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/Park South Rd, Waterloo L22 5PE Park Ln, Bootle or at Bootle New Strand, 11th Feb: Calderstones Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am at Bootle New The Carers Centre walk is a medium 300 Bus Stop 18th Feb: St Michaels to Pierhead Strand Train Stn (L’pool platform) walk, the walks will take around 60 (Bus timetable subject to change – 25th Feb: New Brighton 11th Feb: Dobbies minutes to complete at a relaxed pace, see Walk Leaders) 3rd Mar: Croxteth Hall Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/Park the group will visit various points of 10th Mar: to Moreton Ln, Bootle or 10.00am at Bootle New interest within Sefton and beyond. 17th Mar: Waterloo to Hightown Strand Train Stn (S’port platform) 24th Mar: Sefton Park 8 9

Wednesday Social Walks 4th Mar: Freshfield to Ainsdale Litherland Sports Park 5th Feb: Lydiate – Haylofts (5.5) Walk leader: Mike Time/Place: 10.00am Southport Walking Club Bootle Strand by 10.25am Time: 10.00am (unless otherwise stated). Stn to catch 10.13am train to 12th Feb: Chester Walls via Roodee (5) Freshfield Walk leaders: Ged, Joe, John and Mike Place: The Atkinson, Lord St, S’port Time: 10.00am L’pool Central – Chester PR8 1DB (unless otherwise stated). 11th Mar: Churchtown via Hesketh Park Place: Seaforth & Litherland Train Stn 19th Feb: Brunswick – Sefton Park (5.6) The Southport walks are longer walks 18th Mar: Otterspool Prom (unless otherwise stated) Brunswick

WEDNESDAY and visit a variety of locations across WEDNESDAY Time/Place: 10.00am Southport Stn PLEASE BRING ALONG A PACKED LUNCH 26th Feb: Ormskirk Circular (Lathom) (6) Merseyside and Lancashire. to catch 10.13am train to Aigburth NB: no dogs allowed on these walks Sandhills – Ormskirk 8th Jan: via Eco Centre 25th Mar: Dobbies 15th Jan: Hesketh Park 8th Jan: St. Helens – The Dream (5.75) 4th Mar: New Brighton to Meols (6) 22nd Jan: Churchtown via Hesketh Park L’pool Central – Lime Street L’pool Central – New Brighton 29th Jan: Dobbies 15th Jan: Maghull – Melling (5) 11th Mar: Aughton Circular (6) Sandhills – Maghull Sandhills – Ormskirk 5th Feb: Sefton Park Time/Place: 10.00am Southport Stn to 22nd Jan: Port Sunlight to Rock Ferry (6) 18th Mar: Neston and Little Ness (4.5) catch 10.13am train to Aigburth L’pool Central – Port Sunlight L’pool Central – Sir Thomas St. 12th Feb: Marine Lake 29th Jan: Hightown to Freshfield(5.5) 25th Mar: Ainsdale to Formby (6) 19th Feb: Halsall to Scarisbrick Marina Hightown Ainsdale Time/Place: 10.00am Eastbank St outside Specsavers 10.15am 300 Want to (0) denotes approximate mileage of each walk Bus to Halsall become a 26th Feb: Birkdale via Eco Centre WALK LEADER? Go to p.21

Seaforth Health Walks 15th Jan: Crosby Marina Walk leader: Lin 25th Jan: Southport Pier Time: 10.15am & Kings Gardens Place: Seaforth & Litherland Train Stn 29th Jan: Ainsdale Board walk (platform) or meet at the destination 5th Feb: New Brighton station after 10.15am. 12th Feb: NB: All walks are 2–3 miles long. 19th Feb: War Horse Trail, Ormskirk 26th Feb: Leeds–Liverpool Canal 4th March: Sefton Park 11th Mar: Crosby to Hightown 18th Mar: Squirrel Reserve 25th Mar: Cressington Congratulations Esther – still going strong on your 90th birthday 10 11 Sefton Trailblazers 5th Feb: Otterspool* May Logan 16th Jan: Park 23rd Jan: 3 Park Loop Walk leaders: Gill and Margaret Time/Place: 10.40am Aigburth Health Walks 30th Jan: Hatton Hill Time: Meeting times vary – see listings Train Stn Walk leaders: Debbie, Dot, Brenda, 6th Feb: Little Merton Hike Place: Meeting points vary – see listings Bidston Moss* 12th Feb: Cath, Sue and Lesley 13th Feb: Derby Park Time: 10.00am There is a great choice of walks across Time/Place: 10.40am Bidston Train Stn, 20th Feb: Hatton Hill Place: All the walks start at May Logan Sefton from the beach and dunes and finish at Wallasey Grove Train Stn 27th Feb: 3 Park Loop Healthy Living Centre, L20 5DQ THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY coastal paths, to the Leeds Liverpool 19th Feb: Ainsdale National 5th Mar: Little Merton Hike Canal towpath, to country footpaths, The May Logan walk is a medium walk Nature Reserve* 12th Mar: Hatton Hill lanes and other open areas. The Sefton that will take around 60 minutes to Time/Place: 10.30 Ainsdale Train Stn complete at a gentle pace. The walking 19th Mar: 3 Park Loop Trailblazers Walking group explores all group enjoys short walks in and around 26th Mar: Crosby Marina 26th Feb: Maghull via Thornton* that is on offer using Merseyrail stations the Bootle and Litherland area, taking in as start and finishing points. The walks Time/Place: 10.30am Blundellsands routes along the canal and local parks. are usually between 5–7 miles in length & Crosby Train Stn finish at Maghull and last between 90 minutes to 2 ½ Train Stn Ainsdale Sands and Sea hours and are undertaken at a brisk pace. 4th Mar: Squirrel Reserve* NB: no dogs allowed on these walks Time/Place: 10.30 Freshfield Train Stn Health Walks Walk leaders: Margaret and Pauline Walks in BLACK start/finish at the 11th Mar: Aughton Circular* Time: 10.30am same train station, walks in PINK Time/Place: 10.30am Town Green Place: MeCycle Café (next to Ainsdale start/finish at a different station. Train Stn Train Stn), PR8 3HH (*) denotes an opportunity at the end of the The Ainsdale Sands walk is a medium 18th Mar: Birkdale Hills walk to stop at a pub or café for refreshments. walk lasting approximately 60–90 mins Time/Place: 10.35am Hillside Train Stn 8th Jan: * at a reasonable pace, some of the Time/Place: 10.30am Formby Train Stn 25th Mar: The Dream* walks will include small hills in the Time/Place: 10.20am L’pool Lime St sand dunes. 15th Jan: Train Stn for the 10.27am train to St These walks offer extensive views of the Jan: 9th | 23rd Time/Place: 10.35am Hightown Train Helens Junction Train Stn, finish at sea and Sefton coastline and finish with Feb: 6th | 20th Stn, finish at Hall Road Train Stn a chat and a coffee in MeCycle Cafe. Lea Green Train Stn (travel free with Mar: 5th | 19th If you wish to join the group, please wear 22nd Jan: Churchtown* Merseytravel pass) Pub lunch at the sensible waterproof footwear suitable Time/Place: 10.40am S’port Train Stn end of the walk for wet, boggy paths. 29th Jan: * Walking for Health in Jan: 16th | 23rd | 30th Time/Place: 10.20am Old Roan Feb: 6th | 13th | 20th | 27th Train Stn Hesketh Park Mar: 5th | 12th | 19th | 26th Walk leaders: Jen, Barbara, Vic, Sue and Lisa Time: 1.30pm Place: Hesketh Park Cafe, PR9 9NW A medium walk of 45 minutes in Hesketh Park, this walk is ideal for anyone wanting to increase their activity levels. The walk provides the perfect opportunity to chat to others whilst keeping active. 12 13 Formby Pool Health Walks 9th Jan: Lifeboat Road Southport & Jan: 3rd 16th Jan: Dunes Walk Walk leaders: Hilary and Sue Feb: 7th 23rd Jan: Golf Course Walk Formby Macmillan Time: 10.30am 30th Jan: Devil’s Hole Mar: 6th Place: Formby Pool (main reception Health Walks 6th Feb: Cabin Hill For more information on the area), Elbow Ln, Formby L37 4AB Walk leaders: Glenda, Dave, Lynda,

13th Feb: Beach Walk Tom, Joan and Steve walks and meeting points – FRIDAY The Formby Pool walk is a longer walk 20th Feb: Nicotine Path drop in to the Macmillan THURSDAY at a quick pace and will take around Time: 11.30am 27th Feb: Horse Jennings Wood Information & Support Centre 90–120 minutes to complete. Place: Start locations vary, see listings. 5th Mar: Lost Promenade on Stanley St, call Julia on There are routes to suit everybody The Macmillan walks are medium 12th Mar: Mystery Walk walks but have a shorter option 01704 533024 or email and include Cabin Hill Nature Reserve, 19th Mar: Fisherman’s Path National Trust Nature Reserve and meaning walks can last for around [email protected] (Meet 10.30 Freshfield Train Stn, Natural England Nature Reserve. end of large car park) 20 minutes instead of the medium Please wear footwear suitable for 26th Mar: Ravenmeols Hills Reserve walks of 40–45 minutes. walking through dunes, along woodland The walks take place on the first paths and on uneven ground. Friday of each month and are for anybody affected by cancer. The NEW WALK FOR 2020 Jan: 16th | 23rd | 30th walks take place at various locations Feb: 6th | 13th | 20th | 27th around Sefton and West Lancs. Dobbies Health Walks Mar: 5th | 12th | 19th | 26th Walk leaders: Steph Time: 9.15am Place: Dobbies, Bentham’s Way, Jan: 17th | 31st PR8 4HX (outside main entrance) Dunes Health Walks This is a short walk, 30 minutes Walk leaders: Jean and Trefor Feb: 14th | 28th around Kew Woods. There are plenty Time: 1.30pm Mar: 13th | 27th of footpaths within Kew Woods and Place: Dunes Splash World, it’s easy to do a circular walk. (outside the main entrance by the It will be a gentle paced walk with seating), S’port PR8 1RX rest stops if needed, if you haven’t The Dunes walks are medium length done any physical activity for a while walks at a good pace and the walks then start with this walk. last approximately 75 minutes. Join us after the walk for a quick cuppa. The group walk along the coast and enjoy eye-catching views of the Sefton Prambles – Southport Jan: 16th | 23rd | 30th coastline which include the sea wall Feb: 6th | 13th | 20th | 27th path, Velvet Trail, Marine Lake, Jubilee Prambles are an amble with Trail, Kings Gardens and Park. your pram, free to join, friendly Mar: 5th | 12th | 19th | 26th and active. The group walk for 60 minutes and sometimes stop off at a local café for a cuppa. Walk leader: Steph Time: 10.30am Place: Linaker Family Wellbeing Centre, Linaker St, S’port PR8 5DB (entrance).

14 15 Southport Central Jan: 10th | 17th | 24th | 31st Kings Gardens Health Walks Jan: 18th Health Walks Feb: 7th | 14th | 21st | 28th Walk leader: Steph and Anne Feb: 1st | 15th | 29th Walk leaders: Tony and Peggy Mar: 6th | 13th | 20th | 27th Time: 10.30am Mar: 14th | 28th Time: 10.30am Place: Carousel/beginning of Pier, S’port PR8 1QX

FRIDAY Place: Dunes Splash World

(reception area), S’port PR8 1RX The Kings Gardens walk is a short walk SATURDAY The Southport Central walks are at a medium pace and will take around gentle paced walks of around 30–40 minutes to complete. 30–45 minutes, taking in routes This walk is ideal for anybody who would such as Victoria Park, Jubilee like to build up their physical activity Nature Trail and Marine Lake. levels gradually. A gentle pace with the flexibility to increase if needed, the walk route stays within Kings Gardens for the main part and sometimes includes the pier and sea wall. Want to become a WALK LEADER? Sunday Health Walks 19th Jan: Lifeboat Rd and Beach Go to p.21 Place: Formby Train Stn Walk leaders: Margaret, Brenda, Chris and Steph 2nd Feb: Crosby Coast Time: 2.00pm Place: Blundellsands Train Stn Sefton OPERA Jan: 10th | 17th | 24th | 31st The walks will continue to be fortnightly 16th Feb: Lydiate SUNDAY Health Walks Feb: 7th | 14th | 21st | 28th throughout the Winter months. Place: Hall Lane, Lydiate 1st Mar: Ainsdale Woods Walk leaders: Vikki, Lynn, Mar: 6th | 13th | 20th | 27th They last no longer than 90 mins Olivia and John and are a medium pace walk. Place: Ainsdale Train Stn Time: 10.30am 15th Mar: Crosby Coastal Park Place: St. Matthew’s Church/Sefton Place: Waterloo Train Stn Opera, 410 Stanley Rd, L20 5AE 29th Mar: Fisherman’s Path Loop (Press buzzer, mention the walk, Place: Freshfield Train Stn first floor.) The Sefton Opera walks will last 45–60 minutes, the group visit local parks and greenspaces with time at the Want to end for a cup of tea or coffee and a chat. become a N.B. These walks are for anyone over WALK the age of 50. LEADER? Go to p.21

16 17 Monday mornings Tuesday evenings Wednesday afternoons > FORMBY: > MAGHULL: > FRESHFIELD: > SOUTHPORT: fortnightly – 90 mins weekly – 60 mins weekly – 60 mins weekly – 60 mins Walk leader: Angela Walk Leaders: Margaret, Walk leader: Steph, Walk leaders: Georgina, Time/Place: 10.30am Diane and Dave Phil and Anne John and Steph at Formby Library, Time/Place: 10.15am Time/Place: 6.00pm Time/Place: 2.00pm Duke St, Formby at Meadows Leisure at Freshfield Pub car park, at Dunes Splash World, L37 4AN Centre, Hall Ln, Massam’s Lane, Formby Esplanade PR8 1RX 4th Jan: Maghull L31 7BB L37 7BD Start: 15th Jan 2020 New Year Beach Walk Start: 6th Jan 2020 Start: 14th Jan 2020 18th Jan: Friday mornings Woodland Wander Monday afternoons Wednesday mornings > CROSBY: 1st Feb: > FORMBY: > WATERLOO: weekly – 60 mins Formby to Waterloo weekly – 90 mins weekly – 60 mins Walk leaders: Joyce LONGER LINEAR WALK Nordic Walks Walk leader: Angela Walk leaders: Pat, and Linda Don’t Forget: Bring travel Support: Barbara Peter and Howard Time & Place: 10.30am pass or money to return Enjoy the great choice of Nordic Walking Time/Place: 1.00pm Time/Place: 10.30am at Crosby Leisure Centre by train. groups available every week throughout at Formby Library at Crosby Lakeside Mariners Rd, Crosby Adventure Centre L23 6SX 15th Feb: the Winter season. Duke St, Formby Observation Deck to Beach L37 4AN (Bistro side), Start: 10th Jan 2020 To join our regular Nordic Walking groups Start: 6th Jan 2020 Rd, Waterloo L22 1RR 29th Feb: Start: 8th Jan 2020 Saturday mornings Hoggs Hill Lane via you must complete a Learn to Nordic course Monday evenings > CROSBY: Coastal Path LAST WEDNESDAY with our Nordic Walking UK Instructor. > CROSBY: fortnightly – 90 mins OF EACH MONTH 14th Mar: weekly – 60 mins Walk leader: Peter Golf Course Path Learn to Nordic Course – Waterloo Wednesday Walk leaders: Time/Place: 10.30am 28th Mar: morning weekly walks (2 x 2 hour sessions) Liz and Peter at Crosby Leisure Centre, Formby–Freshfield Circular Time/Place: 6.15pm are 90 mins and start Mariners Rd, Crosby This is a 4 hour training course, split over 2 days. at another time and LONGER WALK You must attend both days. at Crosby Leisure Centre, L23 6SX Mariners Rd, Crosby location on these dates: Jan: 11th | 25th > FRESHFIELD CROSBY: L23 6SX Jan: 29th Feb: 8th | 22nd fortnightly – 60 mins 27th and 28th February, 10.30am till 12.30pm Start: 13th Jan 2020 Feb: 26th Mar: 7th | 21st Walk Leaders: Phil at Crosby Leisure Centre, Mariners Rd, Crosby L23 6SX Mar: 25th and Regina > MAGHULL: See walk info below. Time/Place: 10.30am SOUTHPORT: weekly – 60 mins Time/Place: 10.00am at Freshfield Pub car park, 7th and 8th March, 10.30am till 12.30pm Walk leaders: Ann, prompt at Waterloo Massam’s Lane, Formby at Dunes Splash World, Esplanade PR8 1RX Brenda, Chris, Dave, Community Centre, L37 7BD John, Stuart and Sue 26 Great Georges Rd, Booking is essential! Jan: 11th | 25th Time/Place: 6.30pm Waterloo L22 1RD E: [email protected] or T: 0151 934 2824. at Meadows Leisure Feb: 8th | 22nd Mixed ability walkers Mar: 7th | 21st Places are limited to 12 people per course, Centre, Hall Ln, will be catered for. so book early to avoid disappointment. Maghull L31 7BB Start: 13th Jan 2020

18 19 News…

Get Moving Get Active TorchWe had three torch walksWalks in the Autumn, It is important for all of The 150 minutes can be broken down thank you to everyone who turned up and joined in. to three 10 minute sessions throughout us no matter our age the day, eventually working towards On the first one in October we walked From Lifeboat Rd carpark we made (adults 19+ years) or level 30 minutes on five day of each week, in the woods near to Fisherman’s our way along the boardwalk that of fitness to move more for example. We also need to build Path. The walk took 90 minutes and leads down to the beach, we stopped strength, to keep muscles, bones and it started and finished at the same half way down and looked out across and get our bodies working joints strong on at least 2 days of the train station. We were in Ainsdale an empty beach and towards the sea, a little harder for a week. Try and minimise sedentary National Nature Reserve, the weather we could see the white horses rolling time, break up periods of inactivity. wasn’t great, it rained quite heavily in on to the shore, it was quite eerie. minimum of 150 mins For older adults, work on improving near the end, but we made it around On our return from the beach we did each week for our general balance on 2 days a week, try bowls, okay. Walking through a woodland in the customary torch switch off as tai chi or dance for example. complete darkness is fun, you can’t you can see from the accompanying health and wellbeing. see anything around you, your torch photograph. UK Chief Medical Officers’ Physical leads the way, it’s quiet, tranquil, just The last Torch walk, mid-November Activity Guidelines 2019 the odd flutter of bird wings in the was along the Crosby Promenade, pine trees (which are amplified in the starting from Hall Rd Train Stn, we silence) as we disturb them with our made our way through Merrilocks Park Want to footsteps. There was the distant sound and on to Park Drive, a gated road, become a of the sea crashing up on the shore and must remember to take off your large WALK Merseyrail trains rolling along the rails rucksacks otherwise you will get stuck Volunteer Health Walk LEADER? close by. We did the annual ‘switch off’, in the gate. As we made our way on we turn all the torches off, so we were to the promenade, it was cold but still, Leaders needed! standing in the middle of the woods so we were glad of that. As we made Active Walks – Sefton’s local Health Walk Programme somewhere between Freshfield and our way along the prom back towards Ainsdale in the dark, we were invisible. Hall Rd the wind started to stir and is looking for volunteers to lead and support walking The next torch walk was in November get stronger by the minute and as we groups throughout Sefton. and started from Formby Train Station, stopped for some light refreshment a we walked towards the sand dunes few chocs and a Christmas drink we If you enjoy walking and talking then Accredited training and support is off Albert Rd and through to Lifeboat had the wind and rain, perfect timing! this might interest, your role would provided. The training is a one day Rd. We had a little of everything on The torch walks come and go so be to lead groups of people in and course, provided by the National this route, we walked across a large quickly, they will be back in October. around Sefton on routes that you have Programme, Walking for Health. field, must be length of a football pitch, But in the Spring there will be Thursday planned and recced. The walks run The walks that need walk leaders maybe longer, avoiding all the holes evening walks every fortnight to look throughout the year with a short break carry the round, yellow ‘Want to or divots that we thought had been forward to, they will be in the Spring at Christmas and New Year, the main become a Walk Leader?’ stamp made by dogs (not golfers) but maybe newsletter which should be out at the aim is provide short, regular health throughout the newsletter. rabbits. We then walked into the woods end of March. The walks are free and walks so the communities of Sefton Contact Stephanie Boote, Active Walks alongside Albert Rd, through the sand there is no booking required, just turn can keep active and build up their Co-ordinator on 0151 934 2824 to dunes towards Lifeboat Rd car park. up and join in. physical activity levels. discuss further. 20 21 News… Co-ordinator’s

ChoiceIn each newsletter Sefton’s towards the gallops, go through the gate and step over the stile on to Active Walks Co-ordinator the gallops and over the next stile. Stephanie Boote will share Keep right and follow the path round one of her favourite walks to the other side of the gallops, step in Sefton. This is a shorter over the stile on to the gallops and through the gap opposite, follow the walk, just over 2.5 miles, path that leads to the Leeds and over the gallops and along Liverpool Canal. the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. Walk across the bridge (over the This walk should be enjoyed in canal) and turn left, this is a narrow early Spring, if there has been path alongside a field (canal on your consistent rain over a few days, left) and will go in to a small wood, the paths will be muddy so please on the other side is a row of houses wear suitable footwear. I enjoy this alongside the canal, continue past walk because you can see for miles the houses and the path will lead across fields in most directions you on to Pygon’s Hill Lane. Turn left along the route, you feel like you and walk across the bridge and down are in the middle of the countryside, the steps on the left that leads down Independent wide and open, yet you are only to the canal towpath. Walk under the ½ a mile away from the busy bridge and continue along towpath Southport Road. There is a little of until you reach the next bridge Walk Routes everything on this route, fields, (swing-bridge), turn left at swing-bridge Your guide to great walks in Sefton stiles, gates, canal, bridges, small and walk on the country lane (Eager woods, country lane and horses. Lane, no pavement). Follow the lane Sefton has some of the best Starting from the church at the top and take the next right, back on to walk experiences in the UK. of Hall Lane, walk along Hall Lane Hall Lane where you started. From scenic coastline to inland away from the church. There is a See photographs at top of right hand waterways, woodland nature trails pavement on the right side of Hall page for visual reference of the walk. to meandering country lanes, our Lane. About 350 metres along there For more great walks around Sefton independent walk routes are designed is a footpath sign on the right (slightly pick up one of our Independent hidden by the hedge) and a large Walk Routes packs – see opposite to suit all ages and abilities. farm gate, there is a gap to walk for details. Pick up a walk route pack from your through, the path runs alongside local library or Active Travel. All the a fence on the right and bends left walks are also available to download at www.activetravelsefton.co.uk 22 23 News… (W)RAP UP FOR WINTER! Winter rides are crisp and cool, don’t take too many chances and stick by the rules, Wear the right kind of gear and you’ll feel toasty and nice, Leisure Cycle Routes be prepared for hail, snow and the ice, A huge choice of independent cycle Keep your energy levels up and eat to avoid dips, routes in Sefton and Lancashire are enjoy getting out and read the following cycle tips… available to try, grab one from the Eco Centre (Park and Ride) in Southport • BE PREPARED! • MAINTENANCE: or download from the Active Travel Keep a check of the weather Keep yourself and your bike healthy website or request a copy to be sent forecast before you set off on – don’t ride if feeling unwell. to you by email activetravel@sefton. a ride. The great British weather Check your chain, gears and cables gov.uk. With such a variety there is very changeable! Plan a sensible are working effectively as well as will be a route for you to enjoy, why route to avoid heavy traffic. your brakes. not try the Sefton Circular, 24 miles, • FOOD AND DRINK: • TYRES: highlight hand signals. There are covering a large part of Sefton from Have a bite to eat and drink before Ensure they are inflated correctly a variety of lights to see and Waterloo to Ainsdale, out towards you set off to provide some energy and there’s plenty of tread to cope be seen with including battery, Maghull and back to Waterloo via for the journey ahead. Remember with varying road conditions. rechargeable and dynamo. The Netherton and Litherland. This route you can still be dehydrated after Stopping distances will be longer if running times are far superior to is mostly off road, circular and should cycling intensely. the roads are wet, icy or there are back in the day when cycle lamps take you about 4 hours at a leisurely needed a battery the size of a • CLOTHING: wet leaves. Reducing tyre pressure pace. Why not check out the Mallard cigarette packet! Wear breathable layers so you may help with snow or ice as the Route, 9.5 miles it starts from the can remove them when your surface area increases to produce • EMERGENCY KIT: Eco Centre, and goes along the sea body heats up whilst cycling and more grip. A small kit that will fit in your front on to Churchtown and Botanic wicks away sweat so you don’t • VISIBILITY: backpack or panniers for those Gardens, past Hesketh Park, through feel uncomfortable. Use gloves Clothing that is bright or highly unfortunate situations. A puncture Southport town centre and back that protect your hands from poor visible (Hi –Vis) with fluorescent or repair kit with basic tools such to the Eco Centre. There are also weather but are not bulky so you reflective material may help you to as tyre levers etc, small packable some great routes in Lancashire, the can operate gears and brakes be noticed by drivers. The sooner waterproof jacket and a snack bar Moorhen Route, Burscough is a 5 effectively. Tinted glasses help to another road user spots you the and a drink for an energy boost. mile circular or the Lapwing Route, keep rain/wind out of your eyes better! Not only are there hi-vis Don’t let rustiness get the better again starting form Burscough and and also when the sun is low on jackets and trousers but helmets are of your bike (or yourself!). Get out out towards Martin Mere, 9.5 miles. the horizon at this time of the year. at a drivers eye level and gloves can and chase away the winter blues! Some great routes to cycle and enjoy.

24 25 Rides take place every Wednesday Southport and the group meet at: > 10.30am Hesketh Centre Hesketh Centre Recharge and refresh your mind and on the corner of Albert Rd/ body with a gentle social cycle ride with Park Rd West, S’port the Hesketh Centre Mental Health and For more information, contact: Wellbeing Team. ALL OUR Tony, the group leader Rides The rides are open to anyone, they are Tel: 01704 383110 cycled at a very easy pace and we never Start: 15th Jan 2020 ARE FREE leave anyone behind. It’s a great way to get some gentle exercise and de-stress Cycling Diary at the same time. The rides cover a variety of routes around the Southport area and include a café Winter cycling is crisp and cool, stop to refuel. wrap up warm and pedal away. Join one of the of the regular cycle rides and enjoy the variety of routes

on offer. Or try our independent Rides take place every Monday cycle routes – all mapped out for Macmillan Rides and the group meet at you with directions. For more info Specifically for people affected by Dunes Splash World cancer, these rides provide a great Esplanade, S’port PR8 1RX see page 25 for details. tonic to help raise both physical NEW and mental wellbeing. > 10.15am The rides are short and ridden at Indoor Spin Bike Session a very steady pace, lasting approximately > 11.00am 1 hour and staying within Southport, Cycle Ride taking in routes such as Kings Gardens DO BOTH OR EITHER ONE and Marine Lake, Victoria Park and For more information, email: the Coastal Path. Dave, the group leader Some bikes and helmets are available [email protected] for use if required. Start: 20th Jan 2020

26 27 Thursday Sessions – On 1st & 3rd Thursday each month Tour de Friends 10.00am – 12.00pm ‘The Chain Gang’ throughout the year. As our name suggests we place as > Waterloo Community Centre > Dunes Splash World much emphasis on the social side as Old School Buildings, Rides for Esplanade, S’port PR8 1RX on cycling. Our rides are a perfect way Great Georges Rd, at 10.00am to get back on a bike after time off the over 50’s Waterloo L22 1RD Jan: 16th from cycling. We offer the opportunity This is a great group to join if you’re For more information about the to make new friends and the chance looking to make the step up from your Feb: 6th | 20th rides, sessions or bike and helmet to increase your cycling, whilst riding 12 mile ride to the next level. Racking Mar: 5th | 19th availability, contact: Bill Cowley along with a great bunch of people. up a distance of about 20 miles ridden Email: [email protected] For more information contact: at a gentle steady pace, you’ll be Tel: 07948 013618 Dawn at Age Concern Liverpool The rides which are led by amazed how easy but rewarding it can and Sefton on 01704 542993 trained bike leaders normally Start: 16th Jan 2020 be to increase your mileage. The ride 1 always incorporates a lunch stop around last for 2 /2 hours and are half way, so there’s a chance to refuel ridden at a leisurely pace. before returning to Southport for about 2.00pm. With a wealth of ride leaders No one is left behind and the and experienced cyclists in the group routes are all planned to avoid any new participants will be in good hands, assisting with route direction and busy roads or built up areas any mechanical issues that may arise. as much as is possible and Don’t worry about expensive cycling kit, come along in appropriate, comfortable concentrate on the variety clothing and a serviceable bike and of routes Sefton has to offer. you’ll be pleasantly surprised what you can achieve. After the ride it’s all back to Waterloo Community Centre with the option of staying for lunch at the Community Kitchen, which gives a further chance to chat and socialise over a fabulous well deserved meal. No bike? No problem! We have a limited number of bikes and helmets available. So why not come and join us. We look forward to meeting you.

28 29 So if you’ve got an interest in riding bikes, how they work and how to fix them then Tyred Rides is perfect for you. All tools, parts, bikes and expertise is provided, they have a workshop and keen knowledgeable and friendly staff ready to pass on their skills to get you involved. Once the bikes are fixed they are ready for sale, recycling at its very best, turning once loved bikes back into the community at very affordable prices. So if you’re looking for a new bike to ride to work or nip to the shops on, or your child has outgrown their current bike, head down and grab a fully serviced bike at knock down prices. Tuesdays: Tyred Rides The Alchemy Youth Club is on at the Pedal Away Intermediate Riders Tyred Rides is now a Community same time and at the same venue, All our led rides within our Community > Litherland Sports Park Interest Company, they operate so if you have a friend who isn’t Cycle Clubs programme are ridden Boundary Lane, Litherland L21 7LA Monday to Thursday on interested in bikes, there’ll be plenty at a leisurely pace and offer the rider 10.00am – approx 12.00pm Mornington Road, Southport. for them to get involved in too. the chance to chat with like-minded For more information, please call people, not realising the miles are Fridays: • Repairing and servicing bikes Paul on 01704 380047. ticking by. Utilising the plethora of Intermediate Riders • Selling good quality bikes Or go along any Wednesday, cycle paths within Sefton and visiting > MeCycle Café 5.00pm–7.00pm, Alchemy Hall the many picturesque places within 59 Station Rd, Ainsdale PR8 3HH at very reasonable prices (rear of the Parenting 2000, the borough you’ll be surprised how 10.00am – approx 12.30pm far and wide your bike can take you. to the local community Mornington Rd, Southport PR9 0TS). These rides also encompass either a Bikes and helmets are available for loan Tyred Rides are also part of Alchemy café stop midway or a chance to grab – advanced booking required. Youth programme, working with a brew, a slice of cake or a sandwich For Litherland young people to service and repair at the end. They are open to all, even Tel: 0151 934 4259 bikes They provide them with the if you don’t own a bike, cycles and Email: [email protected] skills and training to increase their helmets are available to use and can knowledge in a hands on fashion. be fitted to suit the rider. For Mecycle These sessions are every Wednesday Tel: 01704 579353 evening 5.00pm–7.00pm for young Email: [email protected] people aged 11–19.

30 31 Spring Newsletter out March 2020 For great walks and rides throughout Sefton and beyond, pick up Sefton’s Walking and Cycling Newsletter from your GP surgery, Library, Leisure Centre and other community venues, alternatively download a copy at activetravelsefton.co.uk OUT NOW! 2020 calendars available while stocks last.

This newsletter has been developed For Walking enquiries: by . The newsletter details [email protected] the different activities organised and 0151 934 2824 promoted by the Walking & Cycling Further information is available at: Team throughout the Winter including activetravelsefton.co.uk how to get involved. Email: [email protected] Design. Web. Advertising. For general enquiries call – @SeftonTravel Sefton Plus on 0345 1400845 Calls cost 2p per minute plus your telephone company’s access charge. visitseftonandwestlancs.co.uk Designed by www.6770.co.uk Designed by

32 PB