Sefton’s Autumn Walking & Cycling Newsletter Issue 53 / Oct – Dec 2019 ALL OUR Walks & Rides ARE FREE

Group-led walks and rides to keep you bright eyed and bushy tailed.

1 Independent Walks in focus, why not try… Walk Routes No booking required, just turn up on the day and get walking. Your guide to great walks in Sefton Sefton OPERA Health Walk Sefton has some of the best Friday mornings, weekly, 10.30am – 60 minutes walk experiences in the UK. This is between a gentle to medium There are four walk leaders with this group paced walk on a Friday morning that lasts Vikki from Sefton OPERA plus volunteer From scenic coastline to inland waterways, approximately 60 minutes, with a variety of walk leaders Lynn, Olivia and Anne. They are woodland nature trails to meandering routes in Bootle, across Sefton and beyond. always increasing the variety of routes they country lanes, our independent walk routes The group meet at Sefton OPERA’s office do and have a good balance of walks local are designed to suit all ages and abilities. on Stanley Road, Bootle. The office sits at and further afield. So if you are over 50, enjoy walking and want to increase Pick up a walk route pack from your the top of a church, when you arrive at the your physical activity levels then join this local library or Active Travel. All the walks building, press the buzzer on the right and group and ‘keeeeeeep’ walking. are also available to download at mention the walk and they will let you in, www.activetravelsefton.co.uk walk up the stairs and meet the group. Meet at: St. Matthew’s Church, 410 Stanley Rd, Bootle L20 5AE (More info Page 16)

Kings Gardens Health Walk Seaforth Health Walk Saturday mornings, fortnightly, 10.30am – 40 minutes Wednesday mornings, weekly, 10.15am – 60 minutes There is a regular Saturday morning walk goes ahead. A good way to start your This walking group meet at Seaforth health walk in , a short walk weekend with a morning walk and then and Litherland Train Stn (on the platform) in and around Kings Gardens near the you can get on with the rest of the day, every Wednesday at 10.15am, the group Promenade. The group meet at the so put the dates in your diary. then catch the next train and enjoy a 60 carousel by Southport every fortnight (More info Page 17) minute, medium paced walk at a different and walk for 40 minutes. This is a location each week. Cressington, along gentle walk and is ideal for gradually the bank of the River Mersey is a favourite, building up your fitness level. The walk but other walks include Southport’s is continuous with a couple of rest stops Kings Gardens, Croxteth Park, Sefton Park included along the route. and Ainsdale Board Walk. The walk leaders Anne and Steph alternate The walk leader Lin has been leading the lead with this walk and have been walks on the programme since 2000, doing it a couple of years now, they have nearly 20 years, unbelievable. Lin would between 8–10 walkers join them except like to see new walkers join the group when the weather is crazy, wind and rain, this Autumn. (More info Page 10) then they usually get two people but the 2 3 Contents Walking Cycling Walks in focus NEW 2 Cycling Diary 26 Walking Diary 5 Southport Hesketh Centre 27 Monday 6 Macmillan Rides 27 Maghull Health Walks Tour de Friends 28 Netherton Feelgood Factory Health Walks The Chain Gang 29 ALL OUR Crosby Health Walks Tyred Rides 30 Ainsdale Health Walks W Pedal Away 31 alks ARE FR Tuesday 8 EE Box Tree Health Walks Bootle Health Walks Walking Diary Hesketh Park Health Walks Introduction It’s Autumn 2019 already! This year Formby Pinewoods Health Walks Active Walks is Sefton’s Just turn up to join our walks but Macmillan Health Walks has flown by and Christmas is not please arrive 15 minutes early for your Waterloo Health Walks that far away now. Plans are being local health walk first walk as you will need to fill in Wednesday 10 made but we must keep active and programme and offers a Registration Form. To assist you the walks are graded: Wednesday Social Walks not let ourselves get distracted by a significant number Grade 1: suitable for people who have not Seaforth Health Walks the weather, the cold, the fallen walked much before. Litherland Sports Park Walking Club of regular walking groups leaves, shorter days, the party Grade 2: suitable for people who are looking Sefton Trailblazers planning, the buying of presents and across Sefton. The walks to increase their activity levels. Thursday 13 general shopping. We must keep continue throughout Grade 3: for people looking for more May Logan Health Walks on moving, participating in regular the year and are led challenging walks. Ainsdale Sands and Sea Health Walks physical activity, and many will Special Interest walks: health walks with a twist. Walking for Health in Hesketh Park by volunteers. Progressional walks: for people who have be doing that through walking and Formby Pool Health Walks The walks range from 10 to 30 minutes undertaken Walking for Health Grade 3 walks Prambles – Southport cycling, two great ways of keeping up to 90 minutes for the Walking for Health and are now looking to take their next steps. Autumn Torch Walks fit and healthy. walks and 90 to 150 minutes for walks Please note: Please attend a Grade 3 walk before joining a Progressional Walk. Friday 15 Adults should be aiming to achieve beyond Walking for Health. Walking is the perfect exercise as it places Progressional Walks: brisk pace, varied Southport & Formby Macmillan Health Walks at least 150 minutes of moderate terrain, can include stiles/steps/gradients Dunes Health Walks little stress upon bones and joints but uses physical activity each week, over 200 muscles within the body and can and uneven surfaces. Southport Central Health Walks something that makes us feel help develop and maintain fitness. Guide dogs are allowed on all health walks. Sefton OPERA Health Walks warmer, breathe a little faster and Saturday 17 increases our pulse rate. Children Kings Gardens Health Walks should be keeping active at least Sunday 17 Sunday Health Walks 60 minutes every day. Keep moving each and every day, as much as Nordic Walks 18 you can, try not to sit for more than Walking & Cycling News 20 1 hour, if you can, get up and walk around for a minute.

4 5 Maghull Health Walks 7th Oct: Frank Hornby Crosby Health Walks 14th Oct: Marine Lake and 21st Oct: Hartley’s Promenade Walk leaders: Sheila, Chris, Sue Walk leaders: Beryl and Sue 28th Oct: Brunswick to and Veronica 4th Nov: Sefton Meadows Time: 10.30am Pier Head † Time: 10.00am 18th Nov: Village Diner Place: Crosby Library (foyer), Place: Maghull Health Centre 2nd Dec: Coach and Horses Crosby Rd North, Crosby L22 0LQ 11th Nov: Coastguard to

MONDAY (outside building), L31 0DJ 9th Dec: The Alt (unless otherwise stated). Hightown † MONDAY 25th Nov: Festival Gardens to The Maghull walks will take around (Christmas Lunch) We meet on the second and fourth Brunswick † 90 minutes to complete. The walks Christmas/New Year Break Monday of each month, except for are based around the rural areas Bank Holidays. We sometimes use 9th Dec: Hall Rd, Little Crosby to of Maghull/Sefton and Lydiate so public transport so walks marked Nag’s Head, Thornton † suitable clothing and footwear with (†) require a travel pass or cash. (Lunch at the Nag’s Head, optional) will be required. The group use We leave the Library promptly at Christmas/New Year Break local cafes to have a tea/coffee 10.30am (unless otherwise stated) stop and a chat. when transport is involved, or you can Want to meet us at Waterloo Train Stn to catch become the 10.40am train in either direction. WALKa LEADER Go to p.32 ?

Ainsdale Health Walks Oct: 7th | 14th | 21st | 28th Netherton Feelgood 7th Oct: 4 Bridges and 2 Parks 14th Oct: Edge Lane Farm Walk leaders: Alasdair and Paul Nov: 4th | 11th | 18th | 25th Factory Health Walks 21st Oct: Copy Farm Park Time: 11.00am Dec: 2nd | 9th Walk leader: Billy 28th Oct: Stand Park Place: MeCycle Café (next to Christmas/New Year Break Time: 10.00am 4th Nov: 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 11th Nov: Rimrose Valley walk lasting for around 60 minutes, The Feelgood Factory walk is a 18th Nov: Canal to Ormskirk Road the group passes through the dunes medium walk of around 60 minutes. 25th Nov: The Criddle Estate so sensible footwear suitable for walking through dunes is advised. The walking routes vary each week 2nd Dec: Litherland Park The group finishes with a chat and taking in local parks and The Leeds 9th Dec: Canal to Melling Road Canal. a coffee in the Mecycle Café Christmas/New Year Break All the walks start and finish at the afterwards. Feelgood Factory.

6 7 Box Tree Health Walks Oct: 8th | 22nd Hesketh Park Health Walks Oct: 1st | 15th | 29th Nov: 5th | 19th Nov: 12th | 26th Walk leaders: Sally and Peggy Walk leaders: Sally and Veronica Dec: 3rd Dec: 10th Time: 10.30am NEW TIME Time: 1.30pm Christmas/New Year Break Christmas/New Year Break Place: Box Tree Kitchen Place: Hesketh Park 192 Cambridge Rd, (corner of Albert Rd/Park Rd

TUESDAY S’port PR9 7LS 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 Health Walks will be sandy paths and gentle Walk leaders: Anne, Margaret and John inclines throughout the route. 29th Oct: Albert Dock Bootle Health Walks Time: 10.30am Oct: 1st | 8th | 15th Walk leaders: Anne, Delia, Helen, Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Place: Pinewoods Pub (front) on 22nd | 29th Sandra, Linda, Mary and Noreen Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.30am Wicks Green (off Harington Rd), L37 1PR Nov: 5th | 12th Time: Meeting times vary – see listings Paradise St Bus Stn, L’pool The Pinewoods Walk is a medium 19th | 26th Place: Meeting points vary – see listings 5th Nov: Sefton Park walk that will take around 75 minutes Dec: 3rd | 10th to complete at a steady pace. The Bootle walks are a medium walk Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Christmas/New Year Break and the group will cover distances of Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am Bootle New Strand Train Stn Macmillan Oct: 1st | 8th | 15th between 2–4 miles each week depending 22nd | 29th (L’pool platform) on location and enjoy a variety of routes Health Walks Nov: 5th | 12th | 19th | 26th across Sefton and beyond. 12th Nov: Maghull Hare and Hounds Walk leader: Dave, Glenda, Veronica, Dec: 3rd | 10th Don’t forget travel fare or pass! Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Lynda and Tom Christmas/New Year Break NB: Bootle walks are unsuitable for dogs. Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am Time/Place: 10.30am Macmillan Orrell Park Train Stn (O’kirk platform) Information & Support Centre, 1st Oct: Halsall NEW WALK 20 Stanley St, S’port PR9 0BY Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/ 19th Nov: Dobbies A short walk around the gardens, Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am front of Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am pier and Marine Lake, returning Bootle New Strand Shopping Centre to the centre for a cuppa and (300 bus stop) Bootle New Strand Train Stn (S’port platform) a chat. 8th Oct: Ormskirk (Town Walk) Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/ 26th Nov: Liverpool Locks Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Waterloo Health Walks 1st Oct: Stanley Park Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am Orrell Park 8th Oct: Meols to Moreton Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.15am Walk leader: Chris Train Stn (O’kirk platform) 15th Oct: Freshfield to Ainsdale Hugh Baird College Time: 10.30am 15th Oct: Little Crosby (Circular) 22nd Oct: New Brighton 3rd Dec: Christmas Lunch Place: Inside Sefton Carers Centre, 29th Oct: Croxteth Hall Time/Place: 9.30am corner of Watts/ South Rd, Waterloo L22 5PE Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am North See Walk Leaders for details 5th Nov: St Michaels to Pierhead The Carers Centre walk is a medium Park bus stop Christmas/New Year Break 12th Nov: Southport walk, the walks will take around 60 19th Nov: Waterloo to Hightown 22nd Oct: Blue Anchor LATER TIME minutes to complete at a relaxed pace, 26th Nov: Sefton Park Time/Place: 10.00am corner of Watts/ the group will visit various points of 3rd Dec: Calderstones Park Park Ln, Bootle or 10.30am Netherton interest within Sefton and beyond. 10th Dec: Freshfield to Ainsdale Feelgood Factory Christmas/New Year Break 8 9

Wednesday Social Walks 6th Nov: Freshfield to Ainsdale Litherland Sports Park 6th Nov: Carr Mill Dam (5.3) Walk leader: Mike Meet: 10.00am at S’port Train Lime St – Garswood Stn to catch 10.13am train to Walking Club Time: 10.00am (unless otherwise stated). 13th Nov: Ainsdale to Formby (7.8) Freshfield Walk leaders: Ged, Joe, John, Place: The Atkinson, Lord St, S’port Ainsdale 13th Nov: Churchtown via Mike and Sid PR8 1DB (unless otherwise stated). 20th Nov: Hooton – Badgers Rake (6) Hesketh Park Time: 10.00am The Southport walks are longer walks L’pool Central – Wirral line 20th Nov: Otterspool Prom Place: Seaforth & Litherland Train Stn

WEDNESDAY and visit a variety of locations across WEDNESDAY Meet: 10.00am at S’port Train (unless otherwise stated) 27th Nov: Cressington to Brunswick (6) and Lancashire. Stn to catch 10.13am train to PLEASE BRING ALONG A PACKED LUNCH Cressington Park 2nd Oct: Southport Pier and Kings Aigburth NB: no dogs allowed on these walks 4th Dec: Seaforth to Hightown (5.8) Gardens 27th Nov: Dobbies 2nd Oct: West Kirby to Meols (6) Seaforth 9th Oct: Avenham Park 4th Dec: Marine Lake L’pool Central – Wirral line 11th Dec: Moreton to Woodside Meet: 10.00am, Lord St, outside 11th Dec: Botanical Gardens (Ferry) (7) Debenhams to catch 10.08am X2 bus 9th Oct: Seaforth to Maghull L’pool Central – Wirral line to Penwortham Library Christmas/New Year Break (Jubilee woods) (6.5) 16th Oct: Marine Lake Seaforth 18th Dec: Sankey Valley Country Park (6) 23rd Oct: Halsall to Scarisbrick Marina 16th Oct: Bidston Hill to Lime St – Earlestown Meet: 10.00am, Eastbank St, outside Birkenhead Park (5.7) Christmas/New Year Break Specsavers, to catch 10.13am L’pool Central – Wirral line (0) denotes approximate mileage of each walk 300 bus to Halsall 23rd Oct: Brunswick to 30th Oct: Birkdale via Eco Centre Sefton Park (5.6) Brunswick Want to become a 30th Oct: Chester Walls via Roodee (5) WALK L’pool Central – Wirral line LEADER Go to p.32 ?

Seaforth Health Walks 2nd Oct: Croxteth Park Walk leader: Lin 9th Oct: No walk today Time: 10.15am 16th Oct: Ormskirk War Place: Seaforth & Litherland Train Stn Horse Route (platform) or meet at the destination 23rd Oct: Ainsdale Board Walk station after 10.15am. 30th Oct: Garden Festival 6th Nov: Blundellsands NB: All walks are 2–3 miles long. 13th Nov: Cressington 20th Nov: Sefton Park 27th Nov: Southport Pier & Gardens 4th Dec: Crosby Marina 11th Dec: Christmas Lunch Christmas/New Year Break

10 11 Sefton Trailblazers 6th Nov: Sefton Park* May Logan 3rd Oct: Crosby Marina 10th Oct: Hatton Hill Walk leaders: Gill and Margaret Time/Place: 10.35am St Michaels Train Stn Health Walks 17th Oct: Rimrose Valley Time: Meeting times vary – see listings Walk leaders: Debbie, Dot, Brenda, 24th Oct: Derby Park Place: Meeting points vary – see listings 13th Nov: Little Crosby & Coastal Path* Cath, Sue and Lesley 31st Oct: 3 Park Loop There is a great choice of walks across Time/Place: 10.35am Hightown Train Stn Time: 10.00am 7th Nov: Little Merton Hike Sefton from the beach and dunes and 20th Nov: Canal & River Dee* Place: All the walks start at May Logan 14th Nov: Crosby Marina Healthy Living Centre, L20 5DQ THURSDAY WEDNESDAY coastal paths, to the Leeds Liverpool Time/Place: 10.55am at Bache Train 21st Nov: Hatton Hill The May Logan walk is a medium walk Canal towpath, to country footpaths, Stn finish at Chester Train Stn 28th Nov: Derby Park lanes and other open areas. The Sefton that will take around 60 minutes to 5th Dec: 3 Park Loop 27th Nov: Lydiate* complete at a gentle pace. The walking Trailblazers Walking group explores all 12th Dec: Little Merton Hike Time/Place: 10.30am Town Green group enjoys short walks in and around 19th Dec: Derby Park that is on offer using Merseyrail stations the Bootle and Litherland area, taking in Train Stn Christmas/New Year Break as start and finishing points. The walks routes along the canal and local parks. are usually between 5–7 miles in length 4th Dec: Cheshire Lines Path* and last between 90 minutes to 2 ½ Time/Place: 10.30am at Ainsdale Train hours and are undertaken at a brisk pace. Stn finish at Freshfield Train Stn Ainsdale Sands and Sea NB: no dogs allowed on these walks 11th Dec: Beach Walk* Health Walks Time/Place: 10.30am at Formby Walk leaders: Margaret and Pauline Walks in BLACK start/finish at the Train Stn Time: 10.30am same train station, walks in PURPLE Place: MeCycle Café (next to Ainsdale start/finish at a different station. Christmas/New Year Break Train Stn), PR8 3HH (*) denotes an opportunity at the end of the The Ainsdale Sands walk is a medium walk to stop at a pub or café for refreshments. walk lasting approximately 60–90 mins at a reasonable pace, some of the 2nd Oct: Rimrose Valley & Parks* walks will include small hills in the Time/Place: 10.30am Waterloo Train Stn sand dunes. 9th Oct: Martin Mere & Canal These walks offer extensive views of the Oct: 3rd | 17th | 31st sea and Sefton coastline and finish with Time/Place:10.40am Southport Train Stn Nov: 14th | 28th a chat and a coffee in MeCycle Cafe. Dec: 12th to catch 10.51am train to Burscough If you wish to join the group, please wear Christmas/New Year Break Bridge Train Stn sensible waterproof footwear suitable (Refreshment stop at The Farm, Burscough) for wet, boggy paths. 16th Oct: Jubilee Trail* Oct: 3rd | 10th | 17th | Time/Place: 10.30am Birkdale Train Stn Walking for Health in 24th | 31st 23rd Oct: Leasowe Common to Hesketh Park Nov: 7th | 14th | 21st | 28th Walk leaders: Jen, Barbara, Red Rocks* Dec: 5th Time/Place: 10.45am Leasowe Train Stn Vic, Sue and Lisa Time: 1.30pm Christmas/New Year Break finish at Hoylake Train Stn Place: Hesketh Park Cafe, 30th Oct: Linear via Simonswood* PR9 9NW Time/Place:10.40am Maghull North A medium walk of 45 minutes Train Stn finish at Maghull Train Stn 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 3rd Oct: Freshfield Dune Heath Southport & 4th Oct: Botanic Gardens Walk leaders: Hilary and Sue 10th Oct: Devil’s Hole Formby Macmillan Place: Outside the café Time: 10.30am 17th Oct: Nicotine Woods 1st Nov: Hillside Place: Formby Pool (main reception 24th Oct: Ravensmeols Hills Health Walks Place: Outside Hillside Stn 31st Oct: Golf Course Walk area), Elbow Ln, Formby L37 4AB Walk leaders: Glenda, Dave, Lynda, 6th Dec: Hesketh Park The Formby Pool walk is a longer walk 7th Nov: Cabin Hill Tom, Joan and Steve Place: Outside the café FRIDAY THURSDAY at a quick pace and will take around 14th Nov: Larkhill Woods Time: 11.30am Followed by drinks at the Imperial 21st Nov: Newbys Woods Place: Start locations vary, see listings. 90–120 minutes to complete. Christmas/New Year Break There are routes to suit everybody 28th Nov: Fisherman’s Path The Macmillan walks are medium and include Cabin Hill Nature Reserve, (Meet 10.30 Freshfield Train walks but have a shorter option National Trust Nature Reserve and Stn, end of large car park) meaning walks can last for around Natural England Nature Reserve. 5th Dec: Mystery Walk 20 minutes instead of the medium Please wear footwear suitable for finishing with Christmas meal walks of 40–45 minutes. walking through dunes, along woodland at Wetherspoons The walks take place on the first paths and on uneven ground. Christmas/New Year Break Friday of each month and are for anybody affected by cancer. The Prambles – Southport Oct: 3rd | 10th | 17th walks take place at various locations Prambles are an amble with 24th | 31st around Sefton and West Lancs. your pram, free to join, friendly Nov: 7th | 14th | 21st | 28th and active. The group walk for Dec: 5th | 12th Christmas Lunch 60 minutes and sometimes stop (Ocean Plaza) off at a local café for a cuppa. Christmas/New Year Break Dunes Health Walks Oct: 11th | 25th Walk leader: Steph Walk leaders: Jean and Trefor Nov: 8th | 22nd Time: 10.30am Time: 1.30pm Dec: 6th Place: Linaker Family Wellbeing Centre, Place: Dunes Splash World, Christmas/New Year Break Linaker St, S’port PR8 5DB (entrance). (outside the main entrance by the 4th Jul: Kew Woods seating), S’port PR8 1RX 11th Jul: Victoria Park The Dunes walks are medium length walks at a good pace and the walks Autumn Torch Walks 17th Oct: Formby Woods last approximately 75 minutes. These evening walks give you the Place: Freshfield Train Stn The group walk along the coast and opportunity to continue to walk 31st Oct: Lifeboat Road enjoy eye-catching views of the Sefton in the evenings in October. Coastal Trail coastline which include the sea wall Join the walk at 6.00pm Place: Formby Train Stn path, Velvet Trail, Marine Lake, Jubilee Trail, Kings Gardens and Victoria Park. from different locations around 14th Nov: Crosby Beach Sefton for a 90 minute health walk. Place: Hall Road Walk leaders: Steph and Hannah Train Stn Time: 6.00pm Place: Start locations vary, see listings.

14 15 Southport Central Kings Gardens Health Walks Oct: 12th | 26th Health Walks Walk leader: Steph and Anne Nov: 9th | 23rd Walk leaders: Tony and Peggy Time: 10.30am Dec: 7th Time: 10.30am Place: Carousel/beginning of Pier, Christmas/New Year Break 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 Oct: 4th | 11th | 18th | 25th flexibility to increase if needed, the walk W Nov: 1st | 8th | 15th | becaont to route stays within Kings Gardens for the me a 22nd | 29th main part and sometimes includes the WALK Dec: 6th pier and sea wall. LEADER Go to p.32 ? Christmas/New Year Break

Sefton OPERA Oct: 4th | 11th | 18th | 25th Sunday Health Walks 13th Oct: Woodland Loop Nov: 1st | 8th | 15th | Place: Freshfield Train Stn Health Walks Walk leaders: Margaret, Brenda, 22nd | 29th Walk leaders: Vikki, Lynn and Olivia Chris and Steph 27th Oct: Crosby Promenade Time: 10.30am Dec: 6th Time: 2.00pm Place: Blundellsands & Crosby Place: St. Matthew’s Church/Sefton Train Stn Christmas/New Year Break The walks will continue to be fortnightly Opera, 410 Stanley Rd, L20 5AE SUNDAY throughout the Autumn months. 10th Nov: Lydiate Trail (Press buzzer, mention the walk, Place: Hall Lane, Lydiate first floor.) They last no longer than 90 mins The Sefton Opera walks will last and are a medium pace walk. 24th Nov: Waterloo Coast 45–60 minutes, the group visit local Place: Waterloo Train Stn parks and greenspaces with time at the 8th Dec: Christmas Trail end for a cup of tea or coffee and a chat. Place: Ainsdale Train Stn N.B. These walks are for anyone over Christmas/New Year Break the age of 50.

16 17 Monday evenings Wednesday mornings Friday mornings > CROSBY: > MAGHULL: > WATERLOO: > CROSBY: fortnightly – 90 mins weekly – 90 mins weekly – 60 mins weekly – 60 mins Walk leaders: Walk leaders: Walk leaders: Pat, Peter Walk leaders: Peter Ann, Brenda, Chris, Dave, and Howard Joyce and Linda Time/Place: 10.30am John, Stuart and Sue Time/Place: 10.30am Time & Place: 10.30am at Crosby Leisure Centre, Time/Place: 6.30pm at Crosby Lakeside at Crosby Leisure Centre Mariners Rd, Crosby at Lydiate Village Hall, Adventure Centre Mariners Rd, Crosby L23 6SX 288 Southport Road, (Bistro side), Cambridge L23 6SX Oct: 12th | 26th Lydiate L31 4EQ Rd, Waterloo L22 1RR Last walk: 12th Dec Nov: 9th | Last walk: 2nd Dec Last walk: 11th Dec Saturday mornings 23rd – Hightown > CROSBY: > FORMBY: LINEAR WALK LAST WEDNESDAY weekly – 60 mins fortnightly – 90 mins With an opportunity for OF EACH MONTH Walk leaders: Walk leader: Angela a drink and food at the Nordic Walks Liz and Peter Waterloo Wednesday Time/Place: 10.30am Hightown Pub. Walk or Time/Place: 6.15pm morning weekly walks train back. Monday mornings at Formby Library, Enjoy the great choice at Crosby Leisure Centre, are 90 mins and start Duke St, Formby Don’t Forget: Bring travel of Nordic Walking > MAGHULL: Mariners Rd, Crosby at another time and L37 4AN pass or money to return groups available every weekly – 60 mins L23 6SX location on these dates: 5th Oct: Formby to by train. Walk Leaders: Oct: 30th Last walk: 28th Oct Hightown via Coastal Path Dec: 7th – Formby week throughout the Margaret, Diane and Dave Nov: 27th Tuesday evenings LINEAR WALK LONGER LINEAR WALK Autumn season. Time/Place: 10.15am See walk info below. > FRESHFIELD: Don’t Forget: Bring travel Approx 2 hours at Meadows Leisure Time/Place: 10.00am If you have completed weekly – 60 mins pass or money to return With an opportunity for Centre, Hall Ln, prompt at Waterloo the Nordic Technique Walk leader: Steph, by train. a drink and food at the Maghull L31 7BB Community Centre, Phil and Anne 19th Oct: Alexandra Rd Railway Pub. Walk or Training Course then 26 Great Georges Rd, Last walk: 9th Dec Time/Place: 6.00pm dune and beach walk train back. get along to your Waterloo L22 1RD Monday afternoons at Freshfield Pub car park, 2nd Nov: Canal walk Don’t Forget: Bring travel nearest one, even if Mixed ability walkers > FORMBY: Massam’s Lane, Formby to Maghull. pass or money to return will be catered for. it has been a while weekly – 90 mins L37 7BD LINEAR WALK by train. since you did the Walk leader: Angela Last walk: 3rd Dec Wednesday afternoons Meet at Crosby Baths > FRESHFIELD training, you will get Support: Barbara > SOUTHPORT: 10.30am fortnightly – 60 mins Time/Place: 1.00pm weekly – 60 mins back into the swing Don’t Forget: Bring travel Walk Leaders: at Formby Library Walk leaders: Georgina, pass or money to return Phil and Regina of things. Duke St, Formby John and Steph by train. Time/Place: 10.30am L37 4AN Time/Place: 2.00pm Nordic Walking is a 16th Nov: at Freshfield Pub car park, at Dunes Splash World, great exercise and Last walk: 9th Dec Ravenmeols Hills Massam’s Lane, Formby Esplanade PR8 1RX L37 7BD Want 30th Nov: when done correctly to learn Last walk: 11th Dec how to Winter Woodland walk Oct: 12th | 26th has many benefits. Nov: 9th | 23rd 14th Dec: The poles improve NORDIC Dec: 7th Christmas Beach Walk posture, increase your WALK walking speed and Go to p.20 work the upper body.

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1 Week Step Challenge How many steps have It’s easier than you think, just keep walking and not sitting you done today? for too long. Increase your steps In the UK the average throughout the week. amount of steps an adult Day 1: 2500 steps (1 mile) Day 2: 3500 steps Nordic Courses takes per day is 3000, Day 3: 4000 steps but we should be aiming Day 4: 5000 steps We have had a few enquiries about Sefton’s Nordic for 10,000 every day! Day 5: 6500 steps Learn to Nordic courses recently, Day 6: 8000 steps so our Nordic Walking UK Instructor Walkers featured So what can we do? Day 7: 10,000 steps has organised a course in November. in LOVEmyBEACH film for Active Learn to Nordic Course Coast 2019. 4 hours in total – over two days Our Friday morning Nordic Walking group took part Saturday 16th AND Sunday 17th Nov in some filming on Crosby Autumn Breeze! From 10.30am to 12.30pm Beach recently for Active Autumn with it’s warm, sunny days is a last hurrah Coast. Active Coast is a Dunes Splash World, Southport programme of activity before the colder weather arrives. (meet at reception) across the whole of the It’s a season of change with Also remember that the sun is low North West coast, with leaves turning a reddish hue, on the horizon and the glare means Cost – £18 per person the aim of getting people that you might not be able to look active and connecting cool temperatures in the Please contact Georgina Morton, ahead or drivers may be dazzled by with nature by making the light and not see you. Using tinted Nordic Walking UK Instructor on morning and dew forming on the most of our clean the wheel rims! Before winter visors/sunglasses, lights and high 01704 224526 or 07977 555946 and safe beaches. visibility clothing may help drivers to book a place on the course. Thanks to Joyce, Linda is upon us, there are still some to see you better. Places are limited, so book early. and Angela for organising good cycling days to be had. Ride boldly into the group for filming. During this time of the year, the days the sunset! Please note: Active Walks Watch it here: gradually get shorter approaching will not be organising any more https://youtu.be/ winter, so ensure your rides enable courses until next year. rBnnzofLayA you to return home in daylight or Active Walks and Active have lights on your bike as darkness Cycling groups use the falls. As with the usual British coast every week and there weather, always have layers of are some great organised clothing to add on or take off routes for you to enjoy. on your journey.

20 21 News…

Co-ordinator’s

ChoiceIn each newsletter Sefton’s As you continue along Firs Link you will see a footpath in front of you, between Active Walks Co-ordinator the houses on St. Peter’s Ave. There Stephanie Boote will share are four more similar footpaths that one of her favourite walks continue to cut through the houses, in Sefton. The first walk is use these paths, they follow each other in Formby, it’s called the until you arrive on Larkhill Ln. On the corner of Larkhill Ln turn left, until you come across the main path, Turn left at the T-junction, this is a ‘Lifeboat Road Trail’ and it cross Dunes Drive but stay on Larkhill this is a wide, stone path, turn left on private road and there are vehicle is 4 miles and 10,000 steps. Ln, you will see a large field on the to the path and walk towards Lifeboat passing points along it. When you This is a walk I really enjoy no matter other side (right) of Larkhill Ln. Cross Rd car park. reach the Lifeboat Rd junction, what the weather is like, it’s not Larkhill Ln and walk on to the field, use Walk around the edge of Lifeboat Rd continue straight on to St. Lukes sheltered throughout but that doesn’t the central path and head towards the car park towards the main entrance, Church Rd and walk past St. Lukes matter as it is a great coastal walk. It trees, there is footpath (in the middle of it is opposite to where you are now, Church on the left, the road takes you does include uneven terrain and sand the trees) that leads into the woods. far side. As you walk past the vehicle round to the right on to Kirklake Rd. filled paths, you just have to work a This path is narrow, with twists and entrance on to Lifeboat Rd turn right Kirklake Rd leads you to Formby Train little bit harder and that’s a good thing turns through the woods (watch out immediately, the path is tarmac for a Stn where this walk finishes. in short bursts. If you take it at your for the tree roots), on your left you will while and then sandy as it leads down If you wish to walk back towards own pace, you can do this route, but see the asparagus field. When you get to the beach, but, you are not going Freshfield Train Stn, you can do this is not suitable for wheelchairs and to the corner of the asparagus field you down to the beach. About 50 meters along the road your started out on – mobility scooters. will notice quite a few tree roots spread down the tarmac path is a footpath College Ave. From Formby Train Stn, The route takes me from Freshfield across the ground, there is a short entrance on the left, into a small (S’port platform) make your way on to Train Stn via Lifeboat Rd and finishes path on your right, take this path, then woods, use this path. You are not in Ennerdale Rd using the footpath that at Formby Train Stn, with the choice immediately turn left and follow the the trees for long, maybe 30 seconds leads away from the platform. Turn of walking back to Freshfield Train Stn, path that slowly rises up into the trees. and then you start your walk through right on to Ennerdale Rd and then first only an extra 20 mins. At the top of the path turn right so you the dunes along sandy, grassy paths right Grisedale Close which is a cul- From Freshfield Train Stn (small car reach the top of the hill where there towards Liverpool. In the distance you de-sac. There is a footpath at the end park side), cross the road and on to is a bench. At the top of the hill look should see the a large white building of Grisedale Close which takes you College Ave directly opposite, take first down towards the sand paths on the on the shore line on the right. through to College Ave. and you can right on to College Path and at the right (do not go in to the pinewoods). You are heading towards Albert Rd, walk the entire length and return to corner use the footpath on the left. Walk down the widest sand path that the road that leads up to that large Freshfield Train Stn (20 minutes). The footpath will bring you out on gradually leads you right and this will white building. Turn left on to Albert Hope you have enjoyed the walk. to the corner of Firs Crescent/Firs bring you out in to a large open area, Rd, this is a wide, uneven road and In the next issue the walk will be in Link, cross the road immediately and you should see the sand dunes in the follow as it bends left and then right Lydiate. continue on to Firs Link. distance. Walk towards the sand dunes and changes in to Alexandra Rd.

22 23 News… 10 Reasons to cycle Thought you couldn’t do it? Thought you wouldn’t enjoy it? Millions of people have overcome those initial fears and concerns and have caught the cycling bug again! Individuals, couples and families are benefiting from this simple, fun and low cost activity. Whether you are a daily rider, a shopper, a commuter, you do it for leisure and pleasure or you are the adventurous type… take to the saddle and ride! 1. Freedom 3. Saves Money 5. Health Benefits 8. Reduce Global Warming Cycling gives a sense of freedom A good bike costs £200; a reasonable Cycling is good for the heart and Cycling creates no pollution or that sitting in a car can never give. car will cost £5,000. With oil prices can help reduce incidence of heart Carbon dioxide emission. It provides Descending a hill on a bike is rising through the roof, cycling can disease, one of the biggest killers a powerful way to help make a exhilarating, something you never also save significantly on petrol costs. amongst developed countries. meaningful contribution to reducing feel in a car. Cycling also gives greater The majority of car journeys are for Sedentary lifestyles also contribute pollution and preventing future freedom about where to go. Many distances less than 5 miles. These to other ‘silent killers’ such as global warming. towns are encouraging pedestrian distances are easily cyclable. These diabetes and high blood pressure. only areas. With a bike you can go short journeys also have the relatively 9. Less Accidents down narrow lanes, on canal paths highest petrol costs because cars are 6. Relieve Stress Unlike Cars, bikes are not lethal and often cut corners that you cannot most inefficient at low speeds. It is If you work in an office or have a machines. In the UK, over 3,000 do in a car. estimated that leaving the car in the stressful job, exercise such as cycling people a year die on the roads due garage for the average commuter could can be a powerful way to help reduce to car accidents. An accident involving 2. Quicker Travelling save an estimate £74.14 per week stress and take your mind off many bikes may cause injury, but, very In many congested towns, a bike can (source: Cycling Weekly June 19th) problems. Exercise releases chemicals rarely will a bike be the cause of a offer the quickest method of transport. such as serotonin. Serotonin is known fatal accident. If more people cycled For example, in London average 4. Lose Weight to promote a feeling of well being. it would definitely help reduce the speeds on roads amounts to a paltry Cycling is a low impact aerobic exercise But, also vigorous exercise is an death rate on our roads. 9 mph (this is actually lower than and is an excellent way of losing effective way to take your mind 100 years ago!) Even a moderately fit weight. Cycling can also be combined off trifling problems. Often coming 10. It’s Fun cyclist will have no trouble in beating with shopping and commuting back from a bike ride, you can see The bike has repeatedly been voted cars, buses and the underground. therefore, enabling very busy people problems in a new perspective. the most popular invention of the Also with a bike, you don’t have to to find time for exercise. It is also a lot past 200 years. Cycling is simply spend time driving around looking for cheaper than gaining membership to 7. It’s Egalitarian great fun. parking. You can park usually exactly the gym. With obesity becoming an Everyone cycles, it is the great social where you want to end up. endemic problem in western society, leveller. Rich or poor, Oxford don or cycling can play a key role in helping little kid, everyone can enjoy cycling. to keep the population in shape.

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. Tony, the group leader ALL OU R The rides are open to anyone, they are Tel: 01704 383110 Rides cycled at a very easy pace and we never 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 Into the Autumn we go, Whether it’s along the Cheshire Lines the Southport area and include a café between Ainsdale and Maghull or stop to refuel. but remember to keep the Leeds and Liverpool Canal through those wheels turning. Netherton to Litherland and into Rimrose Valley. These routes are perfect Along with our group- this time of year to see the changes in the season. led rides, we have lots Rides take place every Monday Take a look at the ‘Sefton Circular’ and the group meet at of off-road routes – a 24 mile cycle route across Sefton’s, Macmillan Rides Dunes Splash World countryside and coast. Specifically for people affected by available throughout cancer, these rides provide a great Esplanade, S’port PR8 1RX You can pick up a copy of the leaflet tonic to help raise both physical NEW Sefton to enjoy at along with all our other cycle routes and mental wellbeing. > 10.15am at the Eco Centre, Southport, or your leisure. Indoor Spin Bike Session download it from the Active Travel The rides are short and ridden at Sefton website http://activetravelsefton. a very steady pace, lasting approximately > 11.00am co.uk/downloadssection/ 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.

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 Oct: 3rd | 17th 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 Nov: 7th | 21st rides, sessions or bike and helmet to increase your cycling, whilst riding 12 mile ride to the next level. Racking Dec: 5th 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 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 Tyred Rides are also part of Alchemy Tuesdays: Tyred Rides Youth programme, working with Pedal Away Intermediate Riders Tyred Rides is now a Community young people to service and repair All our led rides within our Community > Litherland Sports Park Interest Company, they operate bikes They provide them with the Cycle Clubs programme are ridden Boundary Lane, Litherland L21 7LA Monday to Thursday on skills and training to increase their at a leisurely pace and offer the rider 10.00am – approx 12.00pm Mornington Road, Southport. knowledge in a hands on fashion. the chance to chat with like-minded These sessions are every Wednesday people, not realising the miles are Fridays: evening 5.00pm–7.00pm for young ticking by. Utilising the plethora of Intermediate Riders • Repairing and servicing bikes people aged 11–19. cycle paths within Sefton and visiting > MeCycle Café So if you’ve got an interest in riding the many picturesque places within 59 Station Rd, Ainsdale PR8 3HH • Selling good quality bikes bikes, how they work and how to fix the borough you’ll be surprised how 10.00am – approx 12.30pm far and wide your bike can take you. at very reasonable prices them then Tyred Rides is perfect for These rides also encompass either a you. All tools, parts, bikes and Bikes and helmets are available for loan to the local community café stop midway or a chance to grab expertise is provided, they have a – advanced booking required. workshop and keen knowledgeable a brew, a slice of cake or a sandwich For Litherland and friendly staff ready to pass on at the end. They are open to all, even Tel: 0151 934 4259 their skills to get you involved. if you don’t own a bike, cycles and Email: [email protected] Once the bikes are fixed they are ready helmets are available to use and can for sale, recycling at its very best, be fitted to suit the rider. For Mecycle turning once loved bikes back into the Tel: 01704 579353 community at very affordable prices. Email: [email protected] 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. The Alchemy Youth Club is on at the same time and at the same venue, so if you have a friend who isn’t interested in bikes, there’ll be plenty for them to get involved in too. For more information, please call Paul on 01704 380047. Or go along any Wednesday, 5.00pm–7.00pm, Alchemy Hall (rear of the Parenting 2000, Mornington Rd, Southport PR9 0TS).

30 31 Winter Newsletter out Dec 2019 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

Want to become WALKa Volunteer Health Walk LEADER ? Leaders needed! Active Walks – Sefton’s local Health Walk Programme is looking for volunteers to lead and support existing walking groups in Southport and Maghull. If you enjoy walking and talking then The training is a one day course, provided this might interest, your role would by the National Programme, Walking be to lead groups of people in and for Health. around Sefton on routes that you have The walks that need walk leaders planned and recced. The walks run carry the round, yellow ‘Want to become throughout the year with a short break a Walk Leader?’ stamp throughout the at Christmas and New Year, the main newsletter. aim is provide short, regular health Contact Stephanie Boote, Active Walks walks so the communities of Sefton Co-ordinator on 0151 934 2824 to can keep active and build up their discuss further. physical activity levels.

This newsletter has been developed For Walking enquiries: by Sefton Council. 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 Autumn 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

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