East Staffordshire Ramblers Association Group

June 2013

Jenny and I have just spent a month touring round Spain and I can assure you that the weather has been no better there, with strong winds, rain and snow. It has been good to meet up with familiar faces again, even if everyone is fed up with the weather! Quite a few people have been telling me how much they have enjoyed the holidays of which you find out more later. I have also discovered the new walk leaders section is “live” on the web page. Please have a look how the autumn/winter programme is filling out and perhaps offer to lead one or two walks. Also walk leaders can use it to update the numbers on their walks. We have been pleased with the number of members who have opted to receive either their newsletter, walks programme or both via email as this saves both time, in copying and collating, and postage If you would like to give it a try email Jane on [email protected] and she can use your email address to send you either or both documents as you choose. If you need to contact me with news, views or comment I am Mick and my phone number is 01283 703615 and my email is [email protected]

Chairman's Chat Jane, Group Chairman I started the last newsletter saying that the weather could only improve – well, I was certainly proved wrong !! We had some very enjoyable walks in the snow – ploughing through the drifts, digging out car parks – certainly different. Happily since Mick wrote his piece above the weather looks to be improving and the shorts are now out !!

We have just had two different holidays – the Elan valley lived up to expectations – it was as good as last year and although fairly wet we avoided the snow . The following weekend we went to Bath, where we were in short sleeves !! Both, completely different, were very enjoyable.

May I thank all those leaders that have helped out when people are ill or on holiday. We hope that by now Bernard is recovering well from his operation and we hope to see him out walking with us when fully recovered.

May I urge leaders, or would-be, leaders, to check out the addition to the web-page of of the walks programmes – a separate sheet of instructions is enclosed with this newsletter.

Good Walking this summer !!

Walks Programme.

Saturday July 6th Helen has asked me to clarify that the walk is 8 miles not 10 but will go off up Thorpe Cloud and so might feel like 10 miles!

Saturday 17th August Linda W. walk will start from the big layby at Alsop Moor Cottages, SK157564, and NOT the Alsop car park on the Tissington Trail.

Saturday 28th Sept Penny s' walk on the Birmingham canals will meet ; 9.30 am at Burton railway station or 10.45 am at The Bull in the Bull Ring, Birmingham.

We are currently compiling the Autumn/Winter (October – March) walks programme. There is a section on the web page to kick start this. If you can offer to lead some walks please give it a try to save our co-ordinators having to ring and pester you later. If you prefer the telephone Programme Secretaries are: Weekend – Diane 01283 547450, Wednesdays – Bill 01283 531897, Fridays – Brian 01283 740376.

Could we remind all leaders to let Lynnie (07842793666) or Jane (01283 543483 or [email protected]) know the numbers on their walks or enter them yourself via the web page.

What have we been up to

ANNUAL BUFFET 3rd March

As usual a very pleasant lunch, thanks to the hard work of the social committee and the volunteers they persuade to help. The Muddy Boot Award deservedly went to Peter Clark for his work with his team of “Footpath Upgraders.” Certificates were presented to Mike Warner and Jenny Gould. There will be a special Buffet event next year to celebrate our 20 th anniversary so watch out for details nearer the time.

ELAN VALLEY, 10 – 13TH MAY, 2013 Reports from Lynnie & Peter

A group of 14 East Staffs ramblers and 4 Sedgemoor ramblers enjoyed a 4 day break in the beautiful Elan Valley. Our guide Phil, a local resident of the area, treated the groups to wonderful walks.

On the way there on Friday, we followed a way-marked route to see the 'Source of the River Severn' which was an 8 mile round trip from the car park (SN857869) in Hafren Forest near Llanidloes. On Saturday, we headed up the slope behind the Lodge and northwards to the 'Wobbly Bridge' near Rhayader, before climbing the mountain over to Garreg-ddu Reservoir. On Sunday, we drove to the impressive Pen-y-Garreg Dam and climbed up to Crugyn Ci trig point for coffee and over moorland past the Roman Camp down to Craig Goch Reservoir. On Monday, after a photo around Carl's bench, we travelled home by various routes, one of which included two trig points (Foel Gurig - 480m and Ffinnant - 516m).O

We enjoyed fabulous home cooked meals at the end of the day, followed by an assortment of various liquid refreshments smuggled onto the premises. Certain members were converted after sampling various beers, so much so that it was suggested they become Camra members!!! A truly fantastic break was had by all. Thanks go to Jane from the group.

BATH HOLIDAY WEEKEND Thanks for the report Jackie

In May, 13 of us spent a weekend in the Bath area. We met up on Friday afternoon in the car park at Castle Combe for a 5 mile walk on the outskirts of this very pretty village. The village is mainly 15th century stone cottages with mainly vehicle free streets. It has been used as a back drop for many films, including Doctor Dolittle, Robin of Sherwood and Warhorse.

On Saturday, we headed from the hotel in Limpley Stoke, into Bath. Here Jane took us on tour to see the Royal Crescent, The Circus, then into the town to the River and some of the famous sights. In the afternoon we were free to sightsee. Some of us spent a very interesting couple of hours in the Roman Baths which seemed to go on for ever.

Other places visited were the fashion museum, which displays a collection of clothes dating from the late 16th century. On the same site is the Assembly rooms in which you could just imagine dancing in the grand ball room in all your finery. Some people visited Bath Abbey, whilst others spent the afternoon at Prior Park. I think it was agreed by all that an afternoon was not long enough in this beautiful city.

Sunday was spent at Lacock, starting with a 5 mile walk around the village. We were joined by Kay, Bruce and Cassie (the dog) from the Sedgemoor group. The village is stunning and has also been used in many television programmes including Lark Rise to Candleford and Pride and Prejudice.

The first floor of Lacock Abbey was turned into a house after the Dissolution of the Monasteries. It was a fascinating place to walk around and full of history. It also holds the Fox Talbot museum. He was the pioneer of photography. We were also entertained at the Abbey with a falconry display.

The hotel was superb. We contemplated gate crashing the 2 weddings that took place over the weekend, but decided for the chillax option instead. Thanks to Jane’s organisation, we all had a really good relaxing weekend with good weather thrown in.

NATIONAL FOREST WALKING FESTIVAL May

Thank you to all those that supported this years National Forest Walking Festival – either leading walks, back marking walks, or just turning up for the walks. It was nice to meet up with other walkers from other areas. If you would like to help in any way for next years Festival then please contact Jane 01283 543483 or email [email protected] . The deadline for walks is 1st October 2013. The walks must include part of the Forest – can be of any length, any day, any time !! It was noticeable on the walks I went on the number of participants who were not East Staffs Ramblers. This is a great opportunity to promote the National Forest and East Staffs as a tourist destination as well as promote the work of The Ramblers.

Events to come:

FAMILY WALK Saturday 29th June 10.00 AM Staunton Harold P&D Car Park (£2.50) (Melbourne end)

East Staffs are hosting a family walk at Staunton Harold Reservoir. There will be a 5 mile walk for over 6-year olds led by Sam, John and Charlie (the dog). Please bring a torch. There is a shorter 1½ mile stroll for the younger age group and buggies led by Seth and his grandma. The parking area has a café and playground. Please bring your family and friends along – particularly grandchildren !!

HIGH PEAK WEEKEND Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th August

The opportunity to walk in the Dark Peak with walks on Bleaklow and Kinder – some optional scrambling. Most of us travel with a walk on Friday. Everyone makes there own accommodation arrangements, although we can suggest some, with evening meals taken together. If you are thinking of joining us, contact Jane on 01283 543483.

PICNIC IN THE PARK Saturday 10th August

The picnic in the park will be held at Foremark Reservoir Pay and Display car park £2.50 on entry – in the first car park on the right. John will lead a short walk from 10.00 am to 12.30 followed by a shared picnic at 1.00pm.. Please bring a plate of food to be shared between everyone. Remember your plates/bowls and utensils. All welcome.

COACH TRIP Bourton on the Water Sunday 1st September

There will be a 4, 8 and 12 mile walk. If you do not want to walk, but go straight to Bourton that is OK too. Details for departure and return will be given later, but it's usually 8am to 7pm. This trip is open to family and friends not just members. The cost will be £12 per person, numbers are needed by 31st July. Apply using the slip at the end.

Date for your diary – details in next newsletter.

EAST STAFFS RAMBLERS AGM Sunday 17th November Tutbury Village Hall 2.pm

STAFFORDSHIRE RAMBLERS AGM Sunday 24th November tutbury Village Hall

We have been invited to host the Staffordshire Area AGM this year, which we have accepted. We will need help from you, our members, on the day ; directing the parking, providing refreshments, leading / backmarking walks. We expect about 100 to attend. If you can help in any capacity then please contact either Jane 01283 543483 , [email protected] .or Mary 01283 567055.

SKITTLES EVENING Saturday, 16th November Anslow Village Hall

CHRISTMAS 2013 Christmas Lunches have been booked for Saturday 7th December at The Rambler's Retreat and Friday 13th December at Lakeside. Details and booking forms will follow but please note the dates.

Holidays Jane 01283 543483

The autumn holiday to Bassenthwaite from Friday 20th – Tuesday 24th September is now fully booked. If you are thinking of making your own arrangements and joining us for the walks, could you let us know nearer the time.

The initial Sub-Committee meeting to arrange and co-ordinate future holidays took place on Thursday, 23rd May, 2013. Thanks to all who attended With a view to forward planning for 2014, it was proposed we look into organising a holiday to Madeira around April/May next year. The idea is to give members a chance to save up, keep the date free, and look forward to a lovely holiday. Watch this space folks.

The next meeting to discuss this holiday is on Monday 5th August, all are welcome, please notify beforehand if you would like to attend.

Footpath Report David Hewett

Following the late burgeoning of Spring and the passing of the Big Society (If you don't do it nobody else will) Act, it is now a public order offence to enter onto a public right of way without secateurs (and preferably a small saw). You have been warned!

Reports have come in of problems at the National Forest Tender Site at Yoxmor Bank, Yoxall. Members of the public have noted new barbed wire at some access points and along footpaths. National Forest and Staffordshire County Council are aware there has been a change of ownership and are in negotiations with the landowner. The site remains open for public access.

The Environment Statement for HS2 Phase One (Drayton Bassett to Handsacre in Staffordshire) has been published. Public consultations will be held at Lichfield Guildhall (June11th) and Hints Village Hall (June 18th) for discussion. Responses to HS2 Ltd to be in by July 11th 2013. Once the Hybrid Bill has passed through parliament later this year, that is, in effect, the planning application done and dusted.

Footpath Working Group

There have been been 4 session so far this year, working in Dunstall, Barton, Rangemore and Anslow. We have replaced all or part of 10 stiles and installed 2 fingerposts. There will be a golden opportunity for some local publicity very soon with the installation of a large 5-way fingerpost on the Dunstall Estate provided by Bardon Aggregates, Newbold Quarry Bardon.

Past progress and future arrangements for the Working Group can be found in the group website by clicking on the 'Footpath' item in the menu on the right-hand side of the web-pages or please contact Peter – 01283 713209, [email protected].

Website

It's all on there! You can find next weeks walks, the whole programme for the season and the planning page for the next season. Current and past newsletters, lots of social and other Ramblers related “stuff”. Give it a go you might be surprised how easy it is to use and how informative.

Any website issue email [email protected] or ring Peter on 01283 713209

Money for East Staffs Ramblers group! We have now signed up to Ramblers Holidays – Walking Partnership, as a condition of which we have a link to their website from our Group web-site.

As a partner, the Group will receive a financial contribution every time one of our members book a holiday with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. In order to qualify, the person travelling must nominate the group before they travel. If you have already booked and the holiday has not taken place yet, you can nominate your group for funding on your booking. Please email Ramblers Worldwide Holidays quoting your booking reference on [email protected] or call 01707 331133.

Holiday Type Contribution UK holidays £10 per person booked Short haul holidays £20 per person booked Long haul holidays £30 per person booked

Finally I realise that we keep harping on about email but with photocopying and postage costs rising it really is a help to us if we can use it. If you find that this is a convenient way for you to receive information email Jane on [email protected] and you can have you newsletter, walks programme or both sent this way! I hope that summer has arrived for real by the time you receive this newsletter and that I have seen many of you on a pleasant summer walk.

The Ramblers' Association is a registered charity (England & Wales No. 1093577, Scotland No. SC03799] and a company limited by guarantee, registered in England & Wales (No. 4458492). Registered office: 2nd Floor, Camelford House, 87-90 Albert Embankment, London SEl 7TW

EAST STAFFORDSHIRE RAMBLERS

Could you please indicate if you will be attending an event. It may still possible to attend events after the cut off date please ring Mary 01283 567055.

Please return by the end of July

Mrs Mary Jones, 20 Dovecliff Road, Stretton, Burton-upon-Trent, DE13 0DH

Name : ...... Phone number: ......

Event Date Numbers Paid

Coach Trip – Bourton on the Water. Sunday 1st September ………… …….... (£12 each)

(Please note this is open to family and friends not just Ramblers!)

Please make any cheques payable to 'R.A. East Staffordshire Group'. Return to address above, or hand to Mary or Jane on a walk.

Paperless Society. If you would like your newsletter and/or walks programme by email, please email [email protected] so she can use your email address.

Muddy Boot Award If you would like to nominate anyone for this – please give details below.

......

Lifts/car share list

If you are willing to car share, or need a lift please indicate which days and from where.

Days: …...... From:......

Any General Comments/ ideas / suggestions on walks or social programme, or the web-site ?

......

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