The and District Walking and Hostelling Group Programme January-March 2011

[email protected] http://www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk

Welcome to the Bogtrotters... Ramblings from the Chair...

The Bogtrotters are a small but disparate group of about 80 Hello, Welcome to the January to March Programme of Walks walkers, hikers and hostellers. We also run a surprisingly diverse and Trips. This year we are implementing some changes. Firstly range of activities. Some members will be found frequently on half we are now going to produce 4 programmes a year each day and full day walks based in and around Dunstable. Others will covering 3 months. Traditionally the Bogtrotters programme only be found on longer hostelling trips in the mountains. Some of tended to shadow the school year and we shut down for the our members relish the more traditional simple (basic) style of summer months. This no longer occurs, our summer schedule is hostelling, and will participate in camping barn weekends in the almost as busy as any other time of year and this change Peak District, others will only go on trips where a certain facilitates that. The programme of events is becoming fuller and minimum level of comfort is guaranteed. Some of our members more varied and therefore planning 4 months of events in one go are predominantly social, coming out to meals and evening was becoming increasingly arduous. activities. We also hope to make the planning process a little more The group was formed in 1966 as the Dunstable Local YHA spontaneous. If we are told of an upcoming event that we feel that Group. Since then a large number of our members have moved we might like to participate in it is frustrating to have to delay, away from the Dunstable area and are now dotted all over the sometimes 4 or 5 months before it can go in the programme. country and indeed the world. Some of these members still Nevertheless even a 3 month cycle will still miss a number of frequently attend weekend and trips away, but are rarely to be events and we will on occasions make adhoc additions to the seen in Dunstable. programme which will be notified to you via the stop press sections on the website and by email. Those of you who do not New members are always welcome. Prospective members are have internet access or email should join our telephone tree. Ruth welcome to get in touch with anyone on our contact list to discuss Harris-Small organises this and you can ring her (details in the which of the group’s activities would be most attractive to them. committee section overpage) to make sure that she has your Alternatively you can always just turn up to one of the walks. Look details and you don’t miss out. out for a group with walking boots and woolly hats. At the time of writing the group has nearly 80 members and this is Day walks usually involve meeting at the Yum Yum car park (next increasing fairly steadily. Many of these are new members and to the police station) in West Street, Dunstable if the walk is on a for their benefit I will briefly summarise some of the discussions Sunday (free parking). On Saturdays the walks meet outside the that have taken place recently about our insurance cover. Before Priory School in Britain Street (off High Street South). Recently a walk starts members are entitled to obtain a clear and, as far as we have also started occasionally to meet at French’s Avenue is possible, accurate description of the walk that they are about to Car Park (by the green). undertake. They should be aware however that it is not possible for us to walk every walk in advance and even when a path is Sometimes the walks will involve driving out from Dunstable. familiar to us things may have changed since we were last there. Members often share cars to do this and this is arranged on an Different walk leaders have developed different styles of Walk ad hoc basis at the meeting place. It is normally polite to offer a Introduction. Some give a formal Health and Safety talk, others a small contribution to the cost of fuel to the driver. This is rarely more general Descriptive Talk and others dislike the enforced more than £1. formality and give only a fairly perfunctory introduction! However before you come out with us, if you are in any doubt about the Social activities are either based in individual member’s houses, walk you are going to undertake, or you own ability to complete it, or at the venue (bowling, pub meals, the Rex cinema etc.) or in you should explain your concerns to the walk leader first. rooms 1 or 5 of Chews House. Chews house is situated in High Street South next to the Little Theatre. Many thanks to all those who helped compile this new programme, it has been a great cooperative effort! If you are interested in joining us, then give us a ring or just turn up to one of our walks. Julian Contact Us Notices

Julian Clark-Lowes: 07979 435856. n Some of our walks are planned to be accessible by public Susan Jenkins: 01582 865966. transport. However bus times and even bus services are Wendy Hopkins: 01582 602235. subject to change and walk details will sometimes vary to Roger Pepworth: 01582 538414. those set out in this programme. It is advisable to ring or e- Don Snoad: 01582 601852. mail the walk leader to obtain up-to-date information if public Eila Goss 01582 731026 transport is involved.

Or email us at n Throughout this programme various meeting points are [email protected] mentioned. Those members unfamiliar with these rendezvous For social event enquiries email should phone the walk leader or event contact for guidance. [email protected] n All Bogtrotters are reminded that they are most welcome to attend any and all of our meetings – Committee, Planning and Annual. Should anyone wish to see the minutes then please The Committee contact our secretary who will furnish you with a copy. n Children are welcome on our walks if accompanied by an Chair Julian Clark-Lowes 07979435856, 74 Leafields, Houghton adult member of their family. Any children who come will Regis, Beds LU5 5LX [email protected] remain the responsibility of the accompanying adult.

Secretary. Peter Jackson, 07732 418260 87 Plaiters Way, n If members wish to bring dogs on our walks please contact the , Beds. LU5 6JE walk leader to check on suitability. [email protected]

n Photos of our activities, together with names of those Treasurer Colin Meacham 07835936793 Flat 36, The participating, frequently appear on our website. Please let us Maltings, Beale Street, Dunstable LU6 1JS know if this is not acceptable. [email protected]

n Hostelling trips. Members who wish to arrange their own bed Membership Secretary Sue Jenkins 01582 865966 74 & breakfast accommodation whilst the group is staying in a Leafields Houghton Regis Beds LU5 5LX nearby hostel are welcome to do so. They can then join us for [email protected] the daytime activities and evening meal, if they wish. They would still be welcome to share travel arrangements. Social Organiser Ann Cahill Mob. 07988964369

And Eila Goss 01582 731026 Mob.07816012248 n On day walks or weekend trips members may choose to [email protected] share cars or take their own. Before leaving the meeting place please make it clear to the walk leader if you are Publicity Officer. Roger Pepworth 01582 538414 prepared to take passengers, if you are willing to use your car [email protected] to transfer drivers when this is necessary and if, for any reason, you will need to leave the walk early. Please do not Committee Members leave the walk without telling the leader and letting him/her know which passengers you will be taking, if any. Mike Elliott 01582 668406 elliottm89aol.com

Malcolm Gladman 07841596358 n We try to make sure that we keep the number of emails we Ruth Harris-Small 01582 758483 send out to a minimum. However these emails have been Paul Ridgeway 01582 601252 invaluable reminders for a number of recent social events and Jackie Taylor 01582 527618 have ensured that these events were successful and not a Steve Goss 01582 731026 drain on the clubs resources. If you feel you are getting too many emails than let us know. Other Contacts.

Wendy Hopkins 01582 602235 Dave Tomkins 01582 526588 David Dumpleton 01582 607318 John Gabbitass 01582 664036 Mervyn Kempster 01525 222257 Joanne Robertson 07739791148 Elaine Morgan 01582 696718 Dennis Smith 07966493699 Don Snoad 01582 601852 Events in January 2011

Saturday 1st January 2011 Houghton Regis Food & Drink trail - Red Lion Meal social Jo Robinson 01582539534 or 07739791148 or Eila on 01582731026 or [email protected] A short meander round Houghton Regis starting and finishing at Jo's house calling in at other members houses for a chat and a (hot or otherwise) drink. Anyone in the HR area is invited to volunteer to have the walkers round! If inclement weather we will play it by ear. The Red Lion will be open for their excellent £3.69 lunch but IF YOU DEFINITELY WANT TO GO TO THE CARVERY for lunch please let Eila know as the carvery may be busy, 10.45 a.m. at Priory School, or 11.00ish at Jo's, or if you just want lunch. 1.00 pm at the Red Lion Leave when you want to go home or expect to be back in Dunstable by about 4.00.

Sunday 2nd January 2011 Whipsnade Tree Cathedral Half Day Leader Elaine Morgan 01582 696718 We haven't stayed close to home for some time, so today let's leave our cars behind (together with the hangovers) and walk to Whipsnade Tree Cathedral. Usually admired in full leaf, today we will enjoy a completely different view of this arboreal church. Please bring a drink and a snack. Meet time 9.30 am Meet at the Yum Yum, Dunstable Return about 1.30 pm Distance 5.5 miles

Thursday 6th January 2011 Wetherspoon Wander Day Walk Start with tea/coffee and a bacon roll. Discuss your ideas for today's walk; if linear confirm bus route and times for return to Dunstable. Aim for around 12 miles with a return time of about 4.30 pm. 9.30 am at Gary Cooper, Court Drive, Dunstable Roughly 4.30 pm and 12 miles.

Saturday 8th January 2011 Great Offley Circular Day Walk Don Snoad 01582 601852 The area of countryside between Luton and Hitchin offers some wonderful scenic walking. We start at Great Offley, and then go to the little hamlet of Charlton, on to Preston for lunch (pub + village green) and continue to Kings Walden and back to Great Offley. Please bring a torch. Meet 9.30am Priory Middle School Back about 5 - 5.30pm 10.5 miles

Sunday 9th January 2011 Towards Tring Half Day Walk Paul Ridgeway 07836688476 Circular walk from Tring Station to Tring Park.Returning via the pub at Wiggington, and the final 1.5 miles by the . Mostly flat with some fine views Meet time 9.30a.m. Meet at the Yum Yum Dunstable Return approx 3.30p.m. Distance 7 miles

Tuesday 11th January 2011 Fish & Chip Supper + Awards Evening Social + awards. Any nominations asap please Contact Eila Goss 01582731026 or [email protected] Join us for our annual Fish & Chip Supper & Awards Evening. If you are going to attend please could you let us know in advance by ringing 01582 731026 or emailing enquiries@ dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk. to book your fish and chips. Let us know if you have any special dietary requirements. Please try to book well in advance. We will however be able to take a few orders on the night, so no problem if you just want to turn up.

Our speaker this evening will be Stephen Halton, Senior Project Officer (Ecology & Community) for Central Bedfordshire Council. Steve has worked in nature conservation, site management and the countryside service industry for over 30 years and is currently a trustee and member of the Executive Committee for the Bedfordshire CPRE (Campaign to Protect Rural England). Add to all this experience Steve's diverse interests such as dormice, badgers, photography and Irish folk music and we are promised a very entertaining and informative evening.

The nominations are your opportunity to reflect on the high and low points of the previous year's walking and present the worthy and the perpetrators with an appropriate award.

All we need now are your proposals for awards and nominations, which should be sent to: [email protected].

Cost £6 approx Meet time 7.45 pm Meet in Chew's House, Dunstable (Room 3, upstairs) Wednesday 12th January 2011 Flamstead to Redbourne Short Walk Mike Elliott 07594 577129 From Flamstead towards Harpenden on the Chiltern way picking up the Nicky Line to Redbourne. Refeshments only available at the end of the walk so bring a drink and snacks.This would be classed as a moderate walk along field paths and a cycle lane. 9.10am to catch the 9.20 bus to St Albans at Bus Stop D At the Square Dunstable Return about 2pm Distance 5-6 miles

Thursday 13th January 2011 Piccotts End to Dunstable Day Walk David Dumpleton 01582 607318 Linear walk from Piccotts End taking in Flamstead and Markyate on the way back to Dunstable. The Square, Dunstable at 9.05 am for X31 bus (9.15 am) to Piccotts End About 4.30 pm/12 miles

Thursday 13th January 2011 REMINDER Burns Night Coming Up Lesley Grierson-Hill01582 660135 See entry for 25th January.

Please ensure Lesley knows if you are attending Burns night on 25th January as numbers will be limit

Friday 14th January 2011 Studham Common Sue Jenkins 01582 865966 Sue requires numbers for the Work Party (Sat 22nd January)

Saturday 15th January 2011 Three Locks,Old Linslade Half Day Walk Paul Ridgeway 07836688476 Pleasant circular walk from Old Linslade, about half of the walk by the Grand Union Canal. Gentle inclines for the remainder. Meet time 9.30a.m. Meet at Priory Middle School,Dunstable Return approx 2p.m. Distance 6.5miles

Sunday 16th January 2011 Potsgrove & Woburn Day Walk John Gabbitass 01582 664036 With its extensive areas of heath, woodland and field our route today includes many elements that when all put together, can make for a most enjoyable walk. Fair weather on the day would be an added bonus. The trouble is, from past experience I know that’s its all too easy to lose ones bearings especially in woodland where signposts are a rarity and unmarked tracks are all too common. I’m still willing to lead though and you are welcome to join me.

This circular walk starts from the “Flying Fox” pub in Sheep Lane – just off the roundabout on the A5 between Hockliffe and Little Brickhill. Our lunch stop will be at Woburn. Meet time 9.30 am Return about 4pm Meet at Yum Yum, Dunstable Distance 8.5 miles

Thursday 20th January 2011 Wetherspoon Wander Day Walk Start with tea/coffee and a bacon roll. Discuss your ideas for today's walk; if linear confirm bus route and times for return to Dunstable. Aim for around 12 miles with a return time of about 4.30 pm. 9.30 am at Gary Cooper, Court Drive, Dunstable Roughly 4.30 pm and 12 miles

Saturday 22nd January 2011 Studham 'Special Winter Work Party' Conservation Work Contact Sue Jenkins 01582 865966 This is a very special day. Some of the Boggies went last year and we spent the day tidying, pruning, clipping, sweeping, digging, raking and planting trees. It was a really enjoyable day on Studham Common which we soon found out was a lot larger than we realised. All this was done in between eating! We started with breakfast at the Memorial Hall on the green and elevenses while we were working. We enjoyed a delicious lunch back at the Memorial Hall before setting off again for our afternoon endeavours. It was all rounded off by tea and cakes before we returned home. You can volunteer to do as much or as little as you like, you do not have to commit to working all day. If you didn't come last year then do come this year - it is an event not to be missed! See you there.

Bookings by 14th January 2011 please

Sunday 23rd January 2011 Ashridge/Beacon Short Walk Leader Dave Tomkins 01582 526588 This circular walk takes us to Ashridge and up to the Beacon, which should blow away any February cobwebs. Meet time 9.30 am Meet at the Yum Yum Return about 1.30 pm Distance 5.5 miles Monday 24th January 2011 Committee Meeting All members are welcome to attend and contribute to the running of the club. Meet time 8 pm Meet at Dunstable Fire Station

Tuesday 25th January 2011 Burns Night Bash Social - Burns Night Lesley Grierson-Hill 01582660135 For those of you unfamiliar with what this is all about - Burns Night celebrates the life and poetry of Robert Burns who was Scotland's best-loved bard. Suppers have been held in his honour for over 200 years. So … with tradition and true Scottish ancestry in mind – you are invited to celebrate in style with:

Cock- a-leekie soup Haggis (veggie version also), Neeps & Tatties Any scottish dessert you would care to bring

Entry requirements are: to wear something with a Scottish flavour or to bring a poem, ode or music suitable for the occasion or all of these !! (Experienced Potato mashers are most welcome a little earlier !). Give Lesley call on 01582 660135 if you would like to come asap or at latest 13th January. Numbers will be limited. 7 for 7.30 p.m. 10 pm ish

Thursday 27th January 2011 Piccotts End to Dunstable Day Walk David Dumpleton 01582 607318 But we were here a fortnight ago! This time the route back to Dunstable is via Water End, Nettleden, and Little Gaddesden, Studham and Whipsnade. The Square, Dunstable at 9.05 am for X31 bus (9.15 am) to Piccotts End About 5 pm/13 miles

Saturday 29th January 2011 Post-Christmas walk + lunch Half Day Leader Dennis Smith 07966493699 Once again we will be walking to The Plough at Wingfield, hopefully repeating last year's coffee stop at the church in Houghton Regis. If you wish to book a meal please speak to Sheila (on Dennis's mobile, evenings and weekends) regarding the menu and prices.

Booking by 30th November please Meet time 10 am Meet at Priory Middle School, Dunstable

Sunday 30th January 2011 Barton and Hexton Morning Ramble Don Snoad 01582 601852 A visit to Barton Springs and the surrounding hills, giving splendid views over Bedfordshire. Then on to Hexton (with maybe a tea shop!) and back to Barton village. Meet 9.30am Yum Yum, West Street Back about 1.30 - 200pm 6 miles

Events in February 2011

Tuesday 1st February 2011 Wetherspoons Steak Night Social. JUST TURN UP Contact Eila 01582 731026 07816 012248 or [email protected] Enjoy a steak with all the trimmings for £6.49 and this includes an alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink from a wide selection. You can try something else from their menu or just turn up for a drink (Note that parking is free at the adjacent Asda car park after5 pm.) More details can be found on the website: http://www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk/static/pdfs/steak-club-menu.pdf Meet time 7.30 pm Meet at "The Gary Cooper" Grove Park, Court Drive,Dunstable, LU5 4GP

Tuesday 1st February 2011 Jo Robertson 07739791148 REMINDER Book for Barnfield Evening on 10th March

Thursday 3rd February 2011 Wetherspoon Wander Day Walk Start with tea/coffee and a bacon roll. Discuss your ideas for today's walk; if linear confirm bus route and times for return to Dunstable. Aim for around 12 miles with a return time of about 4.30 pm. 9.30 am at Gary Cooper, Court Drive, Dunstable Roughly 4.30 pm and 12 miles Saturday 5th February 2011 Swans Way part 4 Circular Day Walk Leader Dennis Smith 07966493699 Swanbourne to North Marston circular. Today’s walk will take us to Nth Marston on the Swans Way, and then we head back via Granborough. There is a pub in Nth Marston and Granborough if the weather is bad. Please bring a torch. Meet at 9 am Meet at Priory Middle School return about 6 pm Distance approx 10 miles

Sunday 6th February 2011 Ivinghoe Half Day Wendy Hopkins 01582 602235 This walk follows field paths, canal towpaths and quiet lanes from Ivinghoe, through Marsworth and Bulbourne and back to Ivinghoe. Meet at 1 pm Meet at The Yum Yum Return about 5.30 pm 7 miles

Wednesday 9th February 2011 Green Lanes-Tottenhoe Short walk Mike Elliott 07594 577129 Walking the Green Lanes to Tottenhoe and Lime Kiln works and returning via Sewell along the old Leighton Buzzard railway line to Frenchs Avenue. Refreshments only at the end of the walk, so bring a drink and snacks.This would be classed as a moderate to medium walk with some hills. Meet time 9.30 a.m. Meet at the Yum Yum, Dunstable Return 12.30-1 p.m. Distance 5-6 miles

Thursday 10th February 2011 Leighton Buzzard to Dunstable Day Walk David Dumpleton 01582 607318 Walk back from Leighton Buzzard without seeing the canal. The route back takes in Eggington, Stone Henge Works, Hockliffe Church End, Tebworth and Sewell. High Street North, Dunstable at 9.08 am for 70 bus (9.18 am) to Roundel Drive, Leighton Buzzard About 4.30/11 miles

Thursday 10th February 2011 Eila 01582731026 or social@dunstable bogtrotters.co.uk REMINDER Bowling bookings required. Please ensure Eila knows if you intend to go bowling on 25th February so that she knows how many lanes we will need. Thanks.

Friday 11th February 2011 Stow-on-the-Wold Hostel Trip Sue Jenkins 01582 865966 or Julian 07979435856 Weekend away at Stow Youth Hostel. The idea is to stay two nights – some people may want to go down on the morning of the 11th and others may come down in the evening. Probably we will prepare a meal ourselves on the Friday night and eat in in the hostel. The Hostel sits in the main square at Stow and there are several quite decent pub restaurants in the immediate vicinity for an evening meal out on the Saturday. There are a variety of pubs and shops to be explored as well as the good walking in this area. Julian will be leading the walks so I am sure that we will be visiting a drinking establishment along the route. If you can’t make it down on Friday then we will have our mobiles with us. Come down and meet us Saturday if you wish. Currently the hostel has lots of spare spaces but this may fill up nearer the time.

Cost will be £18pppn. Therefore £36 for two nights.

Don't fancy staying in a Youth Hostel? Then contact Miriam on 01582 667166 who is our Bed and Breakfast co- ordinator and will help to book B&B

Saturday 12th February 2011 Harlington Vale Half day walk Mike Elliott 07594 577129 Starting from Harlington this circular walk covers the attractive countryside of Harlington Vale. Refreshments at the end of the walk,therefore bring a drink and snacks. This should be classed as an easy to medium walk taking in a variety of hills, paths etc including one stile Meet at 9.30 a.m. Meet at the small car park on the left at Frenchs Avenue Return 1.30-2 p.m. Distance 5 miles

Sunday 13th February 2011 Jaunt around Ashridge Day walk Paul Ridgeway 07836688476 An easy days walking around the southern part of the estate. Starting near the monument we walk over Berkhamsted common into Potten End for a teashop visit in the unique Sanuk nursery. We return by way of Frithsden, where if time permits, we can enjoy a pub stop before heading back by Ashridge College. Few, if any, stiles or hills! Meet time 9.00 am Meet at the Yum Yum Dunstable Return 4.30 p.m. Distance 9 miles Monday 14th February 2011 Planning Meeting Everyone welcome Planning for March & April (3 wks to get copy to Sheila)

If members wish to meet up at the Globe in Winfield Street after the meeting at about 10 p.m. you are quite welcome to join us (whether you attended the meeting or not!) Dunstable Fire Station 8.00pm

Thursday 17th February 2011 Pub Social Usual enjoying a local pub and its real Ale Eila 01582731026 or [email protected] A change of venue, by popular demand, an alternative local pub. Meet at the Pheasant, a friendly real Ale hostillery, 208 West St. Dunstable, LU6 1NX 7.30 onwards closing time or before.

Thursday 17th February 2011 Wetherspoon Wander Day Walk Start with tea/coffee and a bacon roll. Discuss your ideas for today's walk; if linear confirm bus route and times for return to Dunstable. Aim for around 12 miles with a return time of about 4.30 pm. 9.30 am at Gary Cooper, Court Drive, Dunstable Roughly 4.30 pm and 12 miles

Saturday 19th February 2011 Caddington Short Day Walk Walk Steve Goss 01582731026 Another stroll round the pretty Caddington countryside starting at the car park in Markyate, arriving at a pub at some stage and returning before it gets dark. 9.30 a.m. at Priory School. About 9 miles return by 4.

Sunday 20th February 2011 Ridgmont Circular Short Walk Leader Dave Tomkins 01582 526588 This is a pleasant walk with good views all round. We will choose on the day whether to travel clockwise or anti- clockwise. Meet time 9.30 am Meet at The Yum Yum Return about 1.30 pm Distance 5 miles

Monday 21st February 2011 Victoria Pub for drinks Pub Social. JUST TURN UP Contact Eila 01582 731026 07816 012248or email [email protected] Change of venue, just drop in to the Victoria in West Street LU6 1ST just down from the Police Stn, to sample their fine ales and meet up with a few of the members. No need to book, just turn up anytime from about 7.30. 7.30 onwards Finish at closing time.

Thursday 24th February 2011 Westoning to Dunstable Day Walk David Dumpleton 01582 607318 Walk back to Dunstable via Pulloxhill, Sharpenhoe, , Chalton and Houghton Regis. High Street North, Dunstable at 9.24 am for X31/X42 bus (9.34 am) to Westoning About 4.30 pm/12 miles

Friday 25th February 2011 GO BOWLING Social Eila Goss 01582731026 or email enquiries On request a chance to try our 10 pin bowling skills. £8.90 per person for 2 games. Please let Eila know if you intend to come by 10th February. 7 for 7.30 in the reception at Go Bowling, Court Drive, Dunstable. LU5 4JD

Saturday 26th February 2011 Lilley circular Short Walk Roger Pepworth 01582 538414 A pleasant walk exploring the footpaths and trails around Lilley. It is varied and sometimes hilly terrain but nothing too severe and always beautiful. An area we should walk more often. Meet at Priory Middle School. Meet at 9.30a am Distance 6 miles

Sunday 27th February 2011 Canal "canter" Day Walk Mervyn Kempster 01525 222257 After parking at Tesco, Leighton Buzzard, we will proceed to walk the canal towpath for 2 miles before turning off to climb up to Great Brickhill. Lunch will be taken at Stockgrove Park after which we will return via the Greensand Ridge path, back to our vehicles. This is a safe and easy walk with pleasant woodlands. Meet at 9.30 am Meet at The Yum Yum Return 5 pm 10 miles Events in March 2011

Thursday 3rd March 2011 Wetherspoon Wander Day Walk Start with tea/coffee and a bacon roll. Discuss your ideas for today's walk; if linear confirm bus route and times for return to Dunstable. Aim for around 12 miles with a return time of about 4.30 pm. 9.30 am at Gary Cooper, Court Drive, Dunstable Roughly 4.30 pm and 12 miles

Saturday 5th March 2011 Swans Way part 5 Circular Day Walk Leader Dennis Smith 07966493699 North Marston to Waddesdon circular. Hopefully the weather should be getting better now. So let’s head for and go over Quainton hill, we then bypass Quainton heading down to Waddesdon on the Swans Way. Then we circle back on the Aylesbury Ring and then onto Oving before getting back to Nth Marston. Meet at 9 am Meet at Priory Middle School Return about 6 pm Distance approx 12 miles

Sunday 6th March 2011 Sharpenhoe Half Day Wendy Hopkins 01582 602235 Starting in Streatley we will follow the Path across the Clappers before heading down into the hamlet of Sharpenhoe. Our route then turns west and again picks up the IWP for the climb to Sundon Country Park and our return to Streatley. Meet at 1 pm Meet at the Yum Yum Return about 5.30 pm 7 miles

Wednesday 9th March 2011 Tring circular Short walk Mike Elliott 07594 577129 A circular walk starting from Tring and taking in Tring Park to Wiggington and returning by various paths back to Tring. Refreshments are available at the start and end, but would suggest that you bring a drink and snacks. This is classed as a medium to hard walk with tracks, field paths and hills. Meet time 9.50 a.m. to catch 10.03 bus to Aylesbury. Meet at Bus stop, West St. Return between 2-3 p.m. Distance 5-6 miles

Thursday 10th March 2011 Redbourn to Dunstable Day Walk David Dumpleton 01582 607318 Outline route for this linear walk is: Redbourn, Harpenden, East Hyde, River Lea, Luton, Stockwood Park, Caddington, Dunstable. The Square, Dunstable at 9.10 am for the 34 bus (9.20 am) to Redbourn About 5 pm/13 miles

Thursday 10th March 2011 Barnfield Evening Meal Social Jo Robertson 01582539534 or 07739791148 A chance to dress up and sample a 3 course meal served and cooked by Barnfield's prospective Master Chefs. This was a good quality meal at a reasonable price with excellent service last time we went. If you wish to go you must inform Jo by 1st February as she needs to book your place. 7pm at Barnfield College, Old Bedford Road, Luton

Saturday 12th March 2011 Harlington & Toddington Half Day Walk John Gabbitass 01582 664036 This circular walk starts from the village hall opposite the “Carpenters Arms” at Harlington. We head south for a short distance along the Sundon Road then bear right and follow the path adjacent to the railway line. After Harlington Spinney we join the Icknield Way Path and follow it westwards as far as Toddington. The next point of call on our walk is Harlington Wood End from where it’s a fairly straight series of paths across fields leading back to our start point. If you are looking for refreshments at the end of today’s walk then there is a choice of several pubs at Harlington. Meet time: 10.00 am Return about 2 pm Meet at: French's Avenue, Dunstable Distance 6 miles

Sunday 13th March 2011 Wendover to Princes Risborough circular Day walk Paul Ridgeway 07836688476 A fine days walking across undulating terrain. One or two hills to tackle, but the countryside and views make this worthwhile. Pub stop for lunch planned, but not guaranteed, so please bring food and drink! We return via National Path, passing Chequers. Meet time 9.00 a.m. Meet at the Yum Yum, Dunstable Return approx 5 p.m. Distance 10 miles

Thursday 17th March 2011 Wetherspoon Wander Day Walk Start with tea/coffee and a bacon roll. Discuss your ideas for today's walk; if linear confirm bus route and times for return to Dunstable. Aim for around 12 miles with a return time of about 4.30 pm. 9.30 am at Gary Cooper, Court Drive, Dunstable Roughly 4.30 pm and 12 miles Friday 18th March 2011 Peak District. Sheen Bunkhouse Hostel Trip Don Snoad 01582 601852 Two nights at the rather up-market bunkhouse in the Derbyshire village of Sheen, close to Hartington in the heart of the White Peak. A lovely walking area with plenty of options in all direction. Only 14 beds at the bunkhouse so book early to be sure of finding a bed. Cost is £30 for the two nights. Travel up can be Friday morning or evening. Return early evening on Sunday.

Saturday 19th March 2011 The Three Springs Walk Offley Half Day walk Mike Elliott 07594 577129 A circular walk from Offley taking in three springs. Refreshments at the Red Lion Pub at the end of the walk, but suggest you bring a drink and snacks. This is classed as a medium walk with gentle hills and no stiles. Meet time 9.30 a.m. Meet at the small car park on the left at Frenchs Avenue Return about 2 p.m. Distance 5-6 miles

Sunday 20th March 2011 Woburn Sands/Aspley Heath Short Walk Leader Dave Tomkins 01582 526588 A circular walk in a very pretty and varied area. Meet time 9.30 am Meet at The Yum Yum Return approx 1.30 pm Distance 5.5 miles

Sunday 20th March 2011 Stockgrove Country Park Heath and Reach Afternoon Walk Organiser Peter Jackson 07732 418260 This is a new departure for the Boggies, a guided walk round Stockgrove Country Park, led by Bob Holland, senior ranger with the Greensand Trust, who will take us on a circular walk round the park, pointing out/explaining various features of the park such as its geology, environment issues and its flora and fauna. I guarantee you'll find it very interesting, informative and fun. We need to leave on time so that we're back for tea & tempting cakes at the cafe which closes at 5.

Those wishing to go on the morning walk should have time to get from Woburn to Stockgrove for the start of this walk. Meet time 1.15 pm at Yum Yum Dunstable 1.45pm at Stockgrove Country Park cafe Return about 4.45 pm Distance 4-5 miles

Thursday 24th March 2011 Aston Clinton to Dunstable Day Walk David Dumpleton 01582 607318 This linear walk takes in: Wendover Arm of Grand Union Canal, Pitstone Hill, Ivinghoe Beacon, Edlesborough, Eaton Bray, Totternhoe, Dunstable. West Street, Dunstable at 9.53 am for 61 bus (10.03am) to Aston Clinton About 5.30 pm/14miles

Thursday 24th March 2011 Lumpini Thai Evening Another chance to eat Eila on 01582731026 or 07816012248 or [email protected] A change from the curry and steak, a superb Thai meal for £12.50 at Lumpinis High Street South, Dunstable. Please ring or email Eila by 12th March to book your place (it will probably be possible to add a couple of extras last minute). Meet at 7.30

Saturday 26th March 2011 Whitwell Circular Day Walk Julian Clark-Lowes 07979 435856 A day walk from Whitwell in heading off along the Chiltern Way Extension (past the old YHA building closed in the 60's), up to Chapelfoot where we may have to stop in The Royal Oak for a pair of teeth and then on to The Red Lion in Preston for some horses douvres. Sandwiches on the green if you prefer. And then back by a different path to Whitwell. We might find time to pop into the Watercress Shop in Whitwell (there are watercress beds there) and stock up on supplies for our Watercress soup. Meet at 9.30 am French's Avenue Return 5.30 pm 10 miles approx

Sunday 27th March 2011 Bridgewater "break" Day Walk Mervyn Kempster 01525 222257 Parking in Edlesborough we follow a footpath to Ivinghoe, climb up to the Ridgeway, divert to Aldbury and lunch at the Bridgewater Monument. We return via woodland & fields to our starting point, enjoying fabulous views and beautiful countryside. Meet at 9.30 am Meet at The Yum Yum Return at 5 pm Distance 10.5 miles Monday 28th March 2011 Drinks at the Star and Garter Pub Social. JUST TURN UP Eila 01582731026 or 07816012248 Another chance to have a chin wag over some drinks. Just turn up at the Star and Garter, 147 High St South DUNSTABLE, Bedfordshire LU6 3SQ Meet at 7.30 onwards at the pub. Finish at closing time.

Thursday 31st March 2011 Little Brickhill to Dunstable Day Walk David Dumpleton 01582 607318 Walk back to Dunstable via Woburn, Milton Bryan, Battlesden and Tebworth High Street North, Dunstable at 9.40 am for X31 bus (9.50 am) to Little Brickhill About 5.30 pm/13 miles

PREVIEW OF THE NEXT PROGRAMME Saturday 2nd April 2011 Swan's Way part 6 Circular. Day Walk Dennis Smith 07966493699 We can start today’s walk at a teashop. Following the Swans Way to Stone then circling round to Dinton and heading back to Waddesdon on the Aylesbury Ring and the North Bucks Way. Meet time 9.00 am Meet at Priory Middle School. Return 6pm Distance 12 miles

Monday 4th April 2011 Members Social Evening Social Evening Julian Clark-Lowes 07979435856 or 01582865966 or [email protected] Evening for current and prospective new members to socialise. Please bring a plate and something to drink. We shall be showing photos and slides of some of our walks and trips for everyone to see. This is an opportunity for all of our members to meet up, be it short walkers, day walkers, hill walkers and hostellers. The Bogtrotters are a very diverse group and this is your opportunity to meet and find out what goes on in each strand of our organisation. Meet at 7.30 pm at Chews House Finish 10.00 pm

Thursday 7th April 2011 Wetherspoon Wander Day Walk Start with tea/coffee and a bacon roll. Discuss your ideas for today's walk; if linear confirm bus route and times for return to Dunstable. Aim for around 12 miles with a return time of about 4.30 pm. 9.30 am at Gary Cooper, Court Drive, Dunstable Roughly 4.30 pm and 12 miles

Saturday 9th April 2011 Harlington and Sundon Short Walk Leader Elaine Morgan 01582 696718 This circular walk starts from the village hall opposite the "Carpenters Arms" at Harlington. We head out of the village along the Sundon Road then bear right across fields to reach a footpath which runs parallel to the railway line. We follow that path southwards until we reach a point from where we can charge off left to the village of Sundon for a rest and refreshments. The second half of the walk will take us up through the woods in the direction of Sharpenhoe Clappers - then down and across fields until we arrive back at Harlington beside the lake. Meet Time 10.00 am Return 2 pm Meet at French's Avenue Distance 6 miles

Sunday 10th April 2011 Woburn in the Spring Day Walk Paul Ridgeway 07836688476 A figure of 8 walk, so there is the option of walking for either the morning or the afternoon if you have your own transport. We will be walking 5-6 miles on each walk with lunch taken in the town. The afternoon walk will commence at 1.45 p.m. outside the church opposite Woburn free car park. Meet time 9.30 a.m. Meet at the Yum Yum, Dunstable Return approx 5.30 pm Distance 11-12 miles

Monday 11th April 2011 Globe Evening Pub Social. JUST TURN UP Eila or email [email protected] Another chance to partake a choice of 10+ real Ales and ciders. Just turn up at The Globe 43 Winfield St.Dunstable LU6 1LS (on the corner of Edward St.) 7.30 pm onwards. Finish at closing time or before, your choice..

Wednesday 13th April 2011 Edlesborough to Marsworth Short walk Mike Elliott 07594 577129 Walking from St Mary`s church Edlesborough to Marsworth via Ivinghoe . Refrements at the end of the walk but suggest you bring a drink and snacks. This is classed as a medium to hard walk on footpaths over open country. Meet time 9.50 a.m. to catch 10.03 bus to Aylesbury. Meet at Bus stop, West St Return between 2-3 p.m. Distance 6-7 miles Thursday 14th April 2011 Marsworth to Dunstable Day Walk David Dumpleton 01582 607318 Walk back to Dunstable via Aldbury, Ashridge, Studham and Whipsnade. West Street, Dunstable at 9.53 am for 61 bus (10.03 am) to Marsworth About 5.30 pm/13 miles

Sunday 17th April 2011 Broughton & Moulsoe Half Day Walk Leader John Gabbitass 01582 664036 In case you are wondering, Broughton is on the outskirts of Milton Keynes not far from M1 junction 14.

Our circular walk starts at the newly created Broughton Grounds Community Woodland Nature Reserve. We shall make our way northwards to join a short section of the MK Boundary Walk before leaving that path and heading in the direction of Hurst End and towards North Crawley. Before we reach that village though, we bear sharp left and make our way to the 'Carrington Arms' at Moulsoe for a lunch stop. The final closing section of the walk back to our vehicles is not much more than mile across the fields. Meet time 9.30 am Return about 3.30 pm Meet at Yum Yum, Dunstable Distance 7 miles

Monday 18th April 2011 Amsterdam Trip City Break Ann Cahill 07988964369 I am organizing a trip to Amsterdam and have found accommodation on the Expedia website. It is a hotel with a quadruple room. The price is £570 which is £143per person. The price includes flights from Luton airport, Easyjet, and hotel accommodation and breakfast for 3 nights. They also have a twin room/or double room. The price is £331 which is £166 per person. This also includes flights from Luton, hotel accommodation and breakfast for 3 nights. I am looking to see if anyone would be interested in either of these deals. This is a city break holiday, if you are interested please contact Ann 07988964369. The sooner this is booked the cheaper it will be as the prices will increase as we get closer to the date. Also, someone else may get there first!! If you are interested please phone Ann asap.

Thursday 21st April 2011 EASTER in the Brecon Beacons Hostel Trip Leader Don Snoad 01582 601852 For four nights over the Easter Bank Holiday period we try to get away to the hills, and this year plan to go to the Brecon Beacons-easily accessible from Dunstable, but offering superb walking. The exact route and accommodation has yet to be confirmed, but if you are interested please contact Don a.s.a.p as hostels get booked early at this time of year. Booking (accommodation) will be about £80.

Thursday 21st April 2011 Wetherspoon Wander Day Walk Start with tea/coffee and a bacon roll. Discuss your ideas for today's walk; if linear confirm bus route and times for return to Dunstable. Aim for around 12 miles with a return time of about 4.30 pm. 9.30 am at Gary Cooper, Court Drive, Dunstable Roughly 4.30 pm and 12 miles

Thursday 21st April 2011 Petra Hostel Trip away Roger Pepworth 01582 538414 Petra...... 'A rose-red city half as old as time ' An expedition for travellers, rather than tourists!! We plan a budget flight to Egypt and then journeying by ferry and bus through a bit of Egypt, a bit of Israel and into Jordan. The club has a contact with the warden at one of the Petra hostels who will arrange a tour by donkey of the key sites. An opportunity to make a visit to place which has to be in the top one hundred of the things to do before you die!! We shall try to keep costs as low as possible, using local transport and staying in budget accommodation. At present, the plan is to leave during the last week of the school holidays at Easter and return two weeks later. The cost is unclear but will not be high. We need to book flights soon so please e-mail or phone asap. Thanks.

Saturday 23rd April 2011 Studham/Hudnall Corner Day Walk Wendy Hopkins 01582 602235 Starting in Studham this circular walk goes through Great Bradwin's Wood, passing Ballingdon Bottom and Hedgeswood Common. We continue on towards Great Gaddesden for lunch before turning west to Hudnall Corner, where we may stop for tea. Our route then turns north to the edge of Ravensdell Wood before returning to our cars. Meet at 9.30 am Meet at Priory Middle School Return at approx 6.30pm 10.5 miles approx.

Sunday 24th April 2011 Woburn Circular Short Walk Leader Dave Tomkins 01582 526588 This is a good walk starting in Woburn and following parts of the Greensand Ridge Walk, the Milton Keynes Boundary Walk and also New Wavendon Heath. Meet time 9.30 am Meet at the Yum Yum, Dunstable Return 1-1.30pm Distance 5.25 miles Thursday 5th May 2011 Wetherspoon Wander Day Walk Start with tea/coffee and a bacon roll. Discuss your ideas for today's walk; if linear confirm bus route and times for return to Dunstable. Aim for around 12 miles with a return time of about 4.30 pm. 9.30 am at Gary Cooper, Court Drive, Dunstable Roughly 4.30 pm and 12 miles

Thursday 5th May 2011 Wetherspoons Curry Night Social Meal Eila 01582731026 07816012248 or [email protected] Enjoy a curry, or just turn up for drinks, with all the trimmings for £4.99 and this includes an alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink from a wide selection.Or they have a full menu. (Note that parking is free at the adjacent Asda car park after 5 pm.) More details can be found on the website: http://www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk/food-and-drink/food/wetherspoon- clubs/curry-club.php Meet at The Court Drive Dunstable LU5 4GP 8.00 pm

Wednesday 11th May 2011 Circular from Buckland Wharf Short Walk Mike Elliott 07594 577129 Starting from Buckland Wharf on the Wendover Arm-a circular walk along the unused canal to Wendover and returning by an alternative route. No refreshments at the start or finish,only in the middle at Wendover. Suggest that you bring a drink and snacks. This is classed as an easy to medium walk along canal footpaths, but some hills on the return. Meet time 9.50 a.m. to catch 10.03 am bus to Aylesbury. Meet at Bus stop, West St. Return 4-5 p.m. Distance 7-8 miles

Thursday 19th May 2011 Wetherspoon Wander Day Walk Start with tea/coffee and a bacon roll. Discuss your ideas for today's walk; if linear confirm bus route and times for return to Dunstable. Aim for around 12 miles with a return time of about 4.30 pm. 9.30 am at Gary Cooper, Court Drive, Dunstable Roughly 4.30 pm and 12 miles

Sunday 22nd May 2011 Studham/ Short Walk Leader Dave Tomkins 01582 526588 Now known as 'the Bluebell Walk' - This should be just the right time to see and smell the bluebells. Meet time 9.30 am Meet at The Yum Yum, Dunstable Return about 1.30 pm Distance 5.5 miles

Friday 10th June 2011 Resen Lodge, Resen Bulgaria (near the old Bulgarian Capital Veliko Tarnovo) Hostel trip Leader Julian Clark-Lowes 07979435856 This is likely to be a slightly challenging trip. We have done challenging trips before: Morocco and the High Atlas, The Faeroes, Iceland. Bulgaria is probably nothing like any of these. Nevertheless Bulgaria is definitely not going to be like a trip to a Mediterranean resort. That is why I want to go. I want to see rural Bulgaria before it is rebuilt in the image of Milton Keynes. If we don't go now we will miss it, but if we do go now we will have to accept it when some things are a bit rough and ready.

The hostel offers free transport to and from the nearby city of Veliko Tarnovo; this looks like a wonderful walled mediaeval city. Resen itself, not so sure. It looks like it was rebuilt by the communist party in the mid 50's but nevertheless somewhere quite unlike anywhere I have ever stayed before. The accommodation, Resen Lodge, looks great to me. For what it is this could be a very cheap but different trip.

At current prices the return airfare from Luton is £59. Beds at 10 to 15 euro, weather likely to be hotish. The exchange rate of £1=2.30 leva makes the menu at Resen Lodge look very cheap. Please Julian know if you are interested.

See http://www.resenlodge.com/AboutResenLodge & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veliko_Tarnovo

Saturday 30th July 2011 Trip to Norway Robin Taverner 01206 578150 mob:07802 892726 The details of the itinerary have yet to be finalised. Robin is proposing walking in 2 mountainous areas which are very approximately - 150 miles north of Olso, Jotunheimen and Rondane. The intention is to organise the walking so that walks between cabins/hostels are not too strenuous. When we stay 2 nights at a cabin there will be a choice of walks the next day according to personal taste.

Costs: I am estimating that the trip will cost in the region of £1000 per person not including travel. This is based upon paying all meals provided and good standards of accommodation. It could be considerably cheaper when I have finalised the accommodation as there are different grades. I will try to mix the simple huts with the huts with more facilities.

For more information see... norway trip page or you can email Robin at [email protected]