Sefton’s Spring Walking & Cycling Newsletter Issue 43 / April – June 2017

Spring has sprung, time to join one of our great walks or rides throughout Sefton. Contents Walking Cycling Walking Diary 3 Cycling Diary 23 Monday 4 Pedal Away 24 Health Walks Hesketh Centre 25 Netherton Feelgood Factory Health Walks Ride Programme Macmillan Rides 25 Crosby Health Walks Tour de Friends 26 St Leonard’s Health Walks The Chain Gang Health Walks Rides for the over 50’s 27 Tuesday 6 Sefton Circular Cycle Ride 28 Health Walks Dr Bike – Free Bicycle Maintenance 29 Hesketh Health Walks Tyred Rides 30 Walking Diary Pinewoods Health Walks Ditch the Stabilisers 30 Box Tree Health Walks Active Walks is Sefton’s The walks range from 10 to 30 minutes Waterloo Health Walks Wheels for All 31 up to 90 minutes for the Walking for Wednesday 8 Freewheeling 31 local health walk Health walks and 90 to 150 minutes for Wednesday Social Health Walks programme and offers walks beyond Walking for Health. Netherton Health Walks a significant number Walking is the perfect exercise as it places Sefton Trailblazers Introduction little stress upon bones and joints but uses Thursday 10 Now the clocks have sprung forwards of regular walking groups over 200 muscles within the body and can we can enjoy lighter, brighter days May Logan Health Walks across Sefton. The walks help develop and maintain fitness. Formby Pool Health Walks and spend more time outdoors Ainsdale Sands Health Walks walking and cycling around Sefton continue throughout Prambles and beyond. the year and are led News 12 An evening walk through the pinewoods by volunteers. at Formby or an early morning cycle along Nordic Walks 18 Crosby Promenade. Maybe a 30 minute Grade 1: suitable for people who have not Progressional walks: for people who have Friday 20 brisk walk around one our many parks, there walked much before. undertaken Walking for Health Grade 3 walks Southport Central Health Walks are quite a few to choose from, a great start Grade 2: suitable for people who are looking and are now looking to take their next steps. Sefton Opera Health Walks to the day or lunchtime break. Adults should to increase their activity levels. Special Interest walks: health walks with Southport Promenade Health Walks be doing at least 150 minutes of physical Grade 3: for people looking for more a twist. Southport & Formby Macmillan Health Walks activity a week, at a an intensity that challenging walks. Dunes Health Walks increases your heart rate and you breathe Saturday 22 a little faster and feel warmer. Keeping active Kings Gardens Health Walks regularly has a positive impact on your Sunday 22 health, you can break up your 150 minutes Sunday Health Walks in to 30 minutes on 5 days a week. Try out the ‘Get Moving in May’ activity sheet where you can record the amount of physical activity you do from gardening and running to rowing and swimming. So this Spring step up and put the wheels in motion and enjoy the benefits. 3 4 MONDAY walk ofaround60minutes.Thewalking The Feelgood Factory walkisamedium L305QW Netherton Place: Feelgood Factory, GloversLane, Time: 10.00am Walk leader:Billy Factory HealthWalks FeelgoodNetherton tea/coffee stopandachat. The groupuselocalcafestohavea clothing andfootwearwillberequired. andLydiateMaghull/Sefton sosuitable based aroundtheruralareasof 90 minutestocomplete,thewalksare The Maghullwalkswilltake around (outside building),L310DJ Place: MaghullHealthCentre Time: 10.00am Christine, JohnandSue Walk leaders:Brian, Sheila, Maghull HealthWalks Feelgood Factory. andfinishatthe All thewalksstart parks andTheLeedsLiverpoolCanal. eachweektakinginlocal routes vary

Rimrose Valley (TheWabbs) 26th Jun:EdgeLaneFarm and 19th Jun:CopyFarm Park Village)(Merton 12th Jun:TheCriddleEstate 5th Jun:CanaltoMellingRoad and Wishing Well 22nd May:StHelen’s 15th May:CanaltoOrmskirkRd Benedictine Chapel 8th May:St.Benet’s Park 24th April:AwalkaroundStand 10th April:EdgeLaneFarm 3rd April:4Bridgesand2Parks 19th Jun:Hayloft Meadows 5th Jun:Sefton 22nd May:Hartley’s Pleasenote:notoiletfacilities Bring yourownrefreshments 8th May:LuntMeadows 24th April:Village Diner 3rd April:TheAlt ONBANKHOLIDAYS PLEASENOTE: NOWALKS

for the10.40amtrain. Waterloo Train Stn(whenappropriate) is involved,oryoucanmeetusat promptly at10.30amwheretransport passorcash.We leavetheLibrary walks marked with(† so sometimes usepublictransport Monday eachmonth.Thegroup We meetonthesecondandfourth LiverpoolL220LQ Crosby RdNorth, (foyer), Place: CrosbyLibrary Time: 10.30am Walk leaders:Sue,JohnandBeryl Crosby HealthWalks afterwards. afterwards. a coffeeintheMecycleCafé The groupfinisheswithachat and walking throughdunesisadvised. so sensiblefootwearsuitable for the grouppassesthroughdunes lasting foraround60minutes, The Ainsdalewalkisamedium Train Stn),PR83HH Place: MeCycleCafé(nexttoAinsdale Time: 11.00am Walk leaders:AlasdairandPaul Ainsdale HealthWalks St. Leonard’s HealthWalks a chatbackatSt.Leonard’s. tohavetea/coffeeand opportunity of 60minutes.Therewillbean walk andwilllastforamaximum The St.Leonard’swalkisamedium 60 Peel Rd,BootleL204RW Place: St.Leonard’sCommunityCentre, Time: 10.30am Walk leader:Steph ) requireatravel

May: 8th| Apr: 3rd| Jun: 5th| Jun: 5th| May: 8th| Apr: 3rd  New Brighton† 26th Jun:Ferry/Seacombeto and MarineLake 12th Jun:Waterloo Promenade 22nd May:BroomsCross/† along thePromenade 8th May:BrunswicktoLiverpool† Canal 24th Apr:RimroseValley and (via Aldi/throughLittleCrosby) 10th Apr:Round thewall† ONBANKHOLIDAYS PLEASENOTE:NOWALKS prompt for10.10amtrain. Please note:Meetat10.00am 10th| 12th| 19th 15th| 22nd 24th 19th| 22nd 26th

5 MONDAY 6 TUESDAY views ofthelake, wildlifeandgardens. of 45minutes, gentlepace,takingin The Hesketh Park walk walkisa short Park Rdentrance),PR99LN Rd/ Park(corner ofAlbert Hesketh Place: Time: 1.30pm Walk leaders:Tom andPeggy Hesketh Park HealthWalks garage (No.61 bus) the BusstoponMossLaneopposite Watts Lane,Bootleor10.00amat Time/Place: 9.30amcornerofPark/ 2nd May:CroxtethPark Orrell Park Train StnNB.Latertime Watts Lane,Bootleor10.30amat Time/Place: 10.00amcornerofPark/ 25th Apr:MaghullRunning Horse Bootle StrandTrain Platform) Stn(S’port Watts Lane,Bootleor10.00amat Time/Place: 9.30amcornerofPark/ 18th Apr:Dobbies Hugh BairdCollege,cornerofStanleyRd Watts Lane,Bootleor10.00amat Time/Place: 9.30amcornerofPark/ 11th Apr:LiverpoolLocks Bootle StrandTrain Platform) Stn(S’port Watts Lane,Bootleor10.00amat Time/Place: 9.30amcornerofPark/ 4th Apr:Hesketh Park –seelistings Time: Meetingtimesvary Margaret andSandra Walk leaders:Anne,Delia,Helen, Bootle HealthWalks NB: Bootle walks are unsuitablefordogs. NB: Bootlewalksare Don’t forgettravelfareorpass! andbeyond. across Sefton on locationandenjoyavarietyofroutes mileseachweekdepending between 2–4 and thegroupwillcoverdistancesof The Bootlewalksareamediumwalk –seelistings Place: Meetingpointsvary

Train Platform) Stn(S’port or 10.00amatBootleStrand of Park/Watts Lane,Bootle Time/Place: 9.30amcorner 27th Jun:Rotten Row 10.15am atSirThomasSt,L’pool of Park/Watts Lane,Bootleor Time/Place: 9.30amcorner Park20th Jun:Wirral Country 10.15am atSirThomasSt,L’pool of Park/Watts Lane,Bootleor Time/Place: 9.30amcorner 13th Jun:BidstonHill 10.15am atSirThomasSt,L’pool of Park/Watts Lane,Bootleor Time/Place: 9.30amcorner 6th Jun:Brimstage NB.Latertime 10.20am atKirkdaleTrain Stn of Park/Watts Lane,Bootleor Time/Place: 9.45amcorner 30th May:Kirkby 10.00am atOrrellPark Train Stn of Park/Watts Lane,Bootleor Time/Place: 9.30amcorner 23rd May:OrmskirkRuff Woods 16th May:DayOut Rice Ln, Walton Vale 10.15am atthebusstopon Park/Watts Lane,Bootleor Time/Place: 9.30amcornerof Lydiate9th May:Hayloft Jun: 13th May: 2nd Apr: 4th See walkleaders | 18th | 16th | 27th | 30th

Health Walks Formby Pinewoods and beyond. and beyond. various points of interestwithinSefton relaxed pace,the groupwillvisit around 60minutestocomplete ata is amediumwalk,thewalks willtake of eachmonth.TheCarersCentre walk The walksarethe1st&3rd Tuesdays South Rd,Waterloo L225PE CarersCentre, Place: InsideSefton Time: 10.30am Walk leader:Chris Waterloo HealthWalks gardens. Botanic Gardensandthecommunity pace aroundChurchtown, including walkof30minutes,atagentle A short PR97LS 192 CambridgeRd,S’port Place: BoxTree KitchenforQueenscourt, Time: 11.00am Walk leaders:SallyandPeggy Box Tree HealthWalks gentle inclinesthroughouttheroute. footpaths, therewillbesandypathsand walks usethepinewoodsandcoastal to completeatasteadypace.Allthe walk thatwilltake around75minutes The Pinewoods Walk isamedium Green (offHaringtonRd),L371PR Place: Pinewoods Pub (front)onWicks Time: 10.30am Walk leaders:Anne,MargaretandJohn

20th Jun:Cressington 6th Jun:AinsdaletoFreshfield 16th May:CalderstonesPark 2nd May:Southport 18th Apr:StanleyPark Park4th Apr:Sefton longer walk. This maybeaslightly and MarineDrive) (Junction ofMarshsideRd The OldSandworks Time/Place: 11.00am, RSPB Hide Pleasenote:May9thWalk Jun: 6th May: 9th Apr: 11th Jun: 6th 23rd May: 2nd Apr: 4th |30th | 11th | 20th | 13th | 23rd | 9th | 25th

| 16th | 18th | 20th

| 25th | 27th

7 TUESDAY 8 WEDNESDAY unless otherwise stated. unless otherwise 2–3miles long NB: Allwalksare lunch togetheronsomeofthewalks. to homeinCrosby. Thegroup enjoy walks ontheWirral, Liverpoolandcloser activity levelsfortheweek.Thereare beyond whilstincreasingyourphysical and ofSefton who wishtoexploreparts 60 minutes.It’sagreatwalkforthose at asteadypaceandwilllastforaround 3rd May:MarineLake 10.13am train Time/Place: 26th Apr:OtterspoolProm 19th Apr:Pier andKingsGarden catch 9.58am(No.300 bus) Time/Place: 9.55am,EastbankStto 12th Apr:HalsalltoScarisbrickMarina 5th Apr:ChurchtownviaHesketh Park andLancashire. and visitavarietyoflocationsacross walksarelonger The Southport stated). PR8 1DB(unlessotherwise Place: TheAtkinson, LordSt,S’port 5th Apr:CanalLoop walkisamedium The Netherton –seelistings Place: Meetingpointsvary stated). (unless otherwise Time: 10.30am Walk leader:Steph HealthWalksNetherton Time: Walk leader:Mike Wednesday SocialWalks Seaforth TrainPlace: Seaforth Stn 19th Apr:Formby Woodland Trail Ainsdale Train Stn TrainPlace: Seaforth Stnto 12th Apr:AinsdaleTrail ActivityCentre Place: Netherton 10.00am (unless otherwise stated). 10.00am (unlessotherwise S’port TrainS’port Stn tocatch

28th Jun:BotanicGarden 10.13am train Time/Place: 21st Jun:HallRoad toWaterloo 14th Jun:Hesketh Park 10.13am train Time/Place: 7th June: toAinsdale 31st May:Dobbies 10.13am train Time/Place: 24th May:MuseumofLiverpool Park and Rotten Row 17th May:BirkdaleviaVictoria (Walk Leaders Away Day) 10th May: 10th May: TrainPlace: Seaforth Stn 3rd May: Hightown Train Stn TrainPlace: Seaforth Stnto 26th Apr:HightownCircular Seaforth TrainPlace: Seaforth Stn 28th Jun:KingsGardens, Southport TrainPlace: Seaforth Stn 21st Jun:LiverpoolWaterfront Place: BackofBootleStrand 14th Jun:CroxtethPark TrainPlace: Seaforth Stn 7th Jun:CrosbyMarina TrainPlace: Seaforth Stn 31st May:Dobbies Place: BackofBootleStrand 24th May:CalderstonesPark TrainPlace: Seaforth Stn Reserve 17th May:Formby Squirrel ( Walk LeadersAway Day)

Cressington toOtterspool No Walk No Walk S’port Stn to catch Stntocatch S’port Stntocatch S’port Stntocatch S’port

17th May:BluebellWood* (Volunteer LeadersDayOut) NB: nodogsallowedonthesewalks. undertaken atabriskpace. 90 minutesto21/2hoursandare miles inlengthandlastbetween The walksareusuallybetween5–7 andfinishingpoints. stations asstart all thatisonofferusingMerseyrail Trailblazers Walking groupexplores lanes andotheropenareas.TheSefton footpathsand Canal towpath,tocountry coastal paths,toTheLeedsLiverpool fromthebeachanddunes Sefton There isagreatchoiceofwalksacross –seelistings Place: Meetingpointsvary –seelistings Time: Meetingtimesvary Walk leaders:GillandMargaret TrailblazersSefton Time/Place: 10th May: Time/Place: 3rd May:DunesTrail* Time/Place: 26th Apr:CircularviaCunscoughHall* at SandhillsTrain Stn &LitherlandTrainSeaforth Stnfinish Time/Place: 10.30am, Eldonian Basin 19th Apr:LiverpoolLocksand Hall RdTrain Stn. Time/Place: 10.30am, 12th Apr:CrosbyPromenade Stn finishatHall Road Train Stn Time/Place: 10.35am,HightownTrain via InceBlundell 5th Apr:HightowntoHallRoad start/finish atadifferentstation. start/finish same trainstation, datesinGREEN Walks atthe start/finish inBLACK No walk 10.30am, Formby Train Stn 10.30am, AinsdaleTrain Stn 10.50am MaghullTrain Stn

train toBurscoughBridgeTrain Stn Line Stn tocatch10.51am,Northern Time/Place: The Farm, BurscoughTea Room Picnic lunch/refreshmentstopat MereandCanal* 28th Jun:Martin Ormskirk Train Stn Time/Place: 21st Jun:CircularviaLathom* TrainS’port Stn Time/Place: Botanical Gardens* 14th Jun:Churchtownand Freshfield Train Stn Time/Place: DunePath*7th Jun:North Ormskirk Train Stn Town GreenTrain Stnfinishat Time/Place: Hill* via Scarth 31st May:Ormskirk St MichaelsTrain Stn Time/Place: to SudleyHouse visit Includes optionalafternoon Park*24th May:Sefton café forrefreshments. end ofthewalktostopatapubor at the (*) denotesanopportunity 10.40am S’port Train10.40am S’port 11.00am, 10.40am, 10.30am 10.55am, 10.35am,

9 WEDNESDAY 10 THURSDAY paths andonunevenground. walking throughdunes,alongwoodland Please wearfootwearsuitablefor Natural Nature Reserve. Natural EnglandNatureReserve. National Trust and NatureReserve and includeCabinHillNatureReserve, There areroutestosuiteverybody 90–120 minutestocomplete. at aquickpaceandwilltake around The Formby Pool walkisalonger area), Formby L374AB Place: Formby Pool (mainreception Time: 10.30am Walk andSue leaders:Hilary Formby Pool HealthWalks routes alongthecanalandlocalparks. the BootleandLitherlandarea,takingin walksinandaround group enjoysshort complete atagentlepace.Thewalking that willtake around60minutesto The MayLoganwalkisamedium Healthy LivingCentre,L205DQ atMayLogan Place: Allthewalksstart Time: 10.00am Dot, Brenda,CathandJohn Walk leaders:Debbie,Louise, Health Walks May Logan

29th Jun:HorseJenningsWood bottom largecarpark) (Meet10.30atFreshfield Train Stn, 22nd Jun:AinsdaleReserve Promenade 15th Jun:CabinHillviaOld 8th Jun:BoardWalk Path 1st Jun:AsparagusTrail 25th May:LilyoftheValley Walk Slightlylongerwalk 18th May:Fisherman’s Path 11th May:Devil’sHole Beach 4th May:MadWharf 27th Apr:BluebellWood 20th Apr:GolfCourseWalk 13th Apr:LostResort Trail 6th Apr:NicotineWood 29th Jun:RimroseValley 22nd Jun:LittleMerton 15th Jun:CrosbyMarina 8th Jun:3Park Loop 1st Jun:RimroseValley 25th May:DerbyPark 18th May:CrosbyMarina 11th May:HattonHill 4th May:LittleMerton 27th Apr:CrosbyMarina 20th Apr:3Park Loop 13th Apr:RimroseValley 6th Apr:DerbyPark

wet, boggypaths. waterproof footwearsuitablefor group, please wear sensible group, pleasewearsensible Sands Pub. Ifyouwishtojointhe finish withachatandcoffeeinthe coastlineand of theseaandSefton These walksofferextensiveviews sand dunes. walks willincludesmallhillsinthe at areasonablepace,someofthe walk lastingapproximately60–90mins The AinsdaleSandswalkisamedium Place: AinsdaleSandsHotel,PR82QD Time: 10.30am Walk leaders:MargaretandPauline Ainsdale SandsHealthWalks (unless otherwise stated). (unless otherwise Linaker PR8 5DB(entrance), St,S’port Place: Linaker Childrens’Centre, stated). (unless otherwise Time: 10.30am Walk leaders:StephandSally Thursday mornings Linaker Childrens’Centre activity.or afollow-on return tothecentreforrefreshments off atalocalcaféforcuppaor and setthepacesometimesstop The groupwalkforabout60minutes pram, freetojoin, friendlyandactive. Prambles areanamblewithyour Prambles

29th Jun: Woods 22nd Jun:KingsGardens 15th Jun:Rotten Row 8th Jun:Kew Woods 1st Jun:Pier andSeaWall 25th May: Park 18th May:Kew Woods 11th May:KingsGardens 4th May:Rotten Row 27th Apr:Kew Woods 20th Apr:Seafront 13th Apr:Victoria Park 6th Apr:Kew Woods Circular Jun: 1st May: 4th Apr: 6th | 15th | 20th | 18th | 29th

11 THURSDAY News…

2017 marks some significant milestones surrounding the Sefton coast as the National Trust celebrates The Big Bike Revival 50 years at Formby and The 146th The Big Bike Revival is an Open at Royal takes place in July. This is an opportunity to award-winning National showcase everything associated with programme to encourage the Sefton coast and highlight all the and enable more people to events taking place on this amazing take up cycling as a means stretch of land. of transport or for leisure, To celebrate this wonderful stretch health and social purposes. of land, and its many The programme is organised by partners are billing 2017 as the Cycling UK and delivered locally Year of Sefton’s Coast. by bike recycling centres and Stretching more than With this in mind the Active Walks community cycle groups. programme will be organising a Now in it’s 3rd year, Sefton have “ I pushed my bike along to 22 miles from Bootle in Sefton Coast Challenge Walk so been taking part since the outset one of the events, was a bit the south to Southport watch this space in the Summer and year on year the programme embarrassed really, and thought in the north, the Sefton Walking and Cycling Newsletter out has grown, 2017 proves to be that the bike was probably at the end of June. All the regular the best yet. past it. Couldn’t believe the coast is an amazing space walking groups will also be planning The programme is all about mechanic got it working again a special coastal walk within their filled with unique sand getting those unloved, neglected better than I can ever remember programme this Summer, so keep bikes out of the shed or from and all for free too! I didn’t need dunes, woodlands, a lookout in the next newsletter. wonderful wildlife and under the stairs and back on the to push it home; I rode it all Active Cycling are also celebrating cycle paths, providing people the way and even took the amazing art. the year of Sefton’s coast by with viable forms of healthy, longer route.” launching a new mapped cycle route environmentally friendly and Big Bike Revival 2017 will run and cycle challenge, the ‘Sefton affordable transport. from May through to early June, Circular’ more details of this great You’ll be able to take your bike finishing at the end of Bike Week, route and accompanying event can along to any of the participating so what better way to kick start be found on page 28. venues or pop up sessions around your summer of cycling than to the borough and receive a free spring into action this May and basic service, you’ll also receive breathe new life into your old information on learn to ride sessions bike with the Big Bike Revival. (Adults and Children), on road cycle Events are currently being training opportunities, organised planned and will be listed at cycle rides, maps of cycle routes www.bigbikerevival.org.uk and to enjoy when you like and advice www.activetravelsefton.co.uk on how to keep your bike running so check in throughout the smoothly. Spring to avoid missing out! 12 13 News… ✁ Basic Cycle Everybody learnt something new and got involved as it’s a very practical Maintenance Training course, encouraging participants to Get Moving in May Back in February we ran a two day bring along their own bike, helping How many minutes are you doing? bike maintenance course at Waterloo them fix any issues they may have Community Centre. The course was and getting familiar with their own Record your activity for a month. designed to teach the basics on how bike and how it works. Over the first Adults should be doing at least 150 minutes of physical activity at a moderate to keep your bike in good rideable session we covered the M-check, intensity every week. Moderate activity will raise your heart rate and make you condition, ensuring your bike is cleaning and oiling your bike, breathe faster and feel warmer. You can fill in your activities and times on the efficient as can be, safe to ride and removing both wheels and fixing a calendar below. will last longer and save you money. puncture. Week two stepped things MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN The courses always prove popular up a bit and we worked on setting up but this time we were inundated with brakes, replacing brake blocks and 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 enquiries, possibly a result of the cables and tuning gears. increase in cyclists within Sefton; Everybody not only went away Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins we usually restrict the numbers to with smiles on their faces, more 12 but this time we had to call it a knowledge in their bonces but a few day at 19! We also have a reserve list tools and accessories to put their 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 of 12 people ready to take part in new skills into practice at home. We the next course we deliver. also issued everyone with a copy of the Sefton Active Travel Basic Bike The course was a great success at a Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins perfect venue, Waterloo Community Maintenance Toolkit, a handy pull out Centre is a cycle friendly centre with guide to keeping your bike in good working order. many of their staff and volunteers 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 active cyclists themselves, so much Download a copy of the toolkit from so, a weekly social cycle ride is run www.activetravelsefton.co.uk every Thursday morning from 10am. or contact our team and we can post Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins See the Tour de Friends article on one out to you, call 0151 934 4576 page 26 for more information. or email: [email protected] 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Southport Cycle Hire Cycle Hire is available every day at Southport Eco Centre and Crosby Fancy a bike ride but don’t Lakeside and don’t forget our centre Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins have your own bike? Southport at Southport Station which also Cycle Hire provides bikes for provides a retail and maintenance 29 30 31 service in addition to cycle hire. Example: Example: Example: all the family at 3 locations Gardening Cycling Swimming in Sefton. Bikes can be hired Opening times vary so for details Walking Walking for as little as £6 for up of times and prices log on to: Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins Mins www.visitseftonandwestlancs.co.uk 30 30 60 to 4 hours. 60 60 60

14 15 ✁ News… a c d e i l p t u v w x y z Sefton How much exercise does it take to burn off the Cycle Chat The first of a new series of calories from your favourite drink? opportunities to get together The figures calculated below are based on an adult weighing 150 lbs. and discuss cycling matters Walking (3mph) Cycling within Sefton took place Standard glass of wine (175ml) at the end of January. 148 calories 29 mins 36 secs 34 mins, 2 secs 47 riders, along with representatives outcome. The room was a buzz with Large glass of wine (250ml) from Sefton Council, supporting conversation and some really good, 211 calories 42 mins 12 secs 48 mins, 32 secs cycling organisations and Councillor positive and useful discussions took Weavers arrived at Mecycle Café in place, the finding from the groups Bottle of Lager (330ml) Ainsdale for an evening of cycle chat. was fed back to the entire room 131 calories (average) 26 mins 30 mins, The idea behind the revamped and recorded for future planning. Pint of Bitter (John Smith’s) Sefton Cycle Forum is to provide an The Cycling Team were able to 170 calories 34 mins 39 mins, 6 secs open platform for anyone interested address some of the findings straight Pint of Guinness in cycling to share views, provide away and update the group on what 210 calories 42 mins 48 mins, 18 secs feedback and offer comment on any is being done to combat things like relevant cycling issues or activities near miss incidents with motor Gin & Tonic (single) within the borough. The chats also vehicles and the ongoing issue 120 calories 24 mins 27 mins, 36 secs provide an opportunity for The Sefton of pot holes on carriageways. Vodka & Coke (single) Cycling Team and Councillor Weavers Time had caught up with us and it 120 calories 24 mins 27 mins, 36 secs to inform everyone of the latest work was time to depart but everyone felt Southern Comfort & Lemonade (single) we have been delivering, including it had been a really good, positive 73 calories 14 mins 36 secs 16 mins, 47 secs improvements to infrastructure, experience and we were back in the availability and range of cycling saddle and keeping the wheels rolling Jack Daniels & Coke (single) opportunities for all residents and when it comes to increasing and 129 calories 25 mins 48 secs 29 mins, 40 secs visitors to the borough and future promoting cycling in Sefton. Mojito (180 ml) plans and investment to increase The next Sefton Cycle Chat is 122 calories 24 mins 24 secs 28 mins, 4 secs cycle journeys. scheduled for Wednesday 3rd May, Pina Colada (135ml) After introductions and an overview 6pm– 8pm at MeCycle Café. 245 calories 49 mins 56 mins, 21 secs of what’s happening in Sefton now, a workshop was run to gather Places are limited but if you are Long Island Iced Tea (150 ml) information from the group as to any interested in attending please 292 calories 58 mins 24 secs 1 hour, 7 mins, 10 secs areas of concern for cyclists, what contact us to book a place: Can of Coke could be done to assist this and Call: 0151 934 4576 139 calories 30 mins 34 minutes how could we achieve the desired Email: [email protected]

16 17 Monday afternoons Wednesday mornings Saturday mornings > Formby: > Waterloo: > Formby: weekly – 90 mins weekly – 60 mins fortnightly – 90 mins Walk leader: Walk leaders: Pat, Peter, Walk leaders: Angela Angela and Gill Liz, Ally and Howard Time/Place: 10.30am Support: Barbara Time/Place: 10.30am at Formby Library, Time/Place: 1.00pm at Crosby Lakeside Duke St, Formby at Formby Library, Adventure Centre L37 4AN Duke St, Formby (Bistro side), 8th Apr: L37 4AN Rd, Observation Deck Monday evenings Waterloo L22 1RR and Beach > Crosby: Wednesday afternoons 22nd Apr: weekly – 90 mins > Southport: Formby to Ainsdale, Walk leaders: weekly – 60 mins linear walk Nordic Walks Liz and Peter Walk leaders: Georgina, Longer walk Time/Place: 6.00pm John and Steph 6th May: Enjoy the great choice of Nordic at Crosby Leisure Centre Time/Place: 2.00pm Hills To join these walks (swimming baths), at Dunes Splash World, 20th May: you must first Walking groups available every Mariners Rd, Crosby Esplanade, Woodland Walk complete the L23 6SX Southport PR8 1RX Nordic Walking UK 3rd Jun: week throughout the Spring. > /Maghull: Friday mornings Formby to Hall Road, Training Course weekly – 90 mins > Crosby: If you have completed the Nordic ‘Learn to Nordic’ linear walk Walk leaders: Ian, weekly – 60 mins 17th Jun: Technique Training Course then Brenda and John Walk leaders: Linda, Beach Walk via Time/Place: 6.30pm Joyce, Ian and Sandra Nicotine Path get along to your nearest one, at Lydiate Parish Hall Time & Place: 10.30am > Crosby: even if it has been a while since 288 Southport Rd, at Crosby Leisure Centre fortnightly – 90 mins Lydiate L31 4EQ (swimming baths), Walk leaders: you did the training, you will get Tuesday evenings Mariners Rd, Crosby Liz and Peter > Freshfield: L23 6SX Time/Place: 10.30am back into the swing of things. weekly – 60 mins Friday afternoons at Crosby Leisure Centre, Walk leaders: NEW TIME Mariners Rd, Crosby Nordic Walking is a great exercise Steph and Maggie > Southport: L23 6SX and when done correctly has Time/Place: 6.00pm fortnightly – 60 mins Apr: 1st | 15th | 29th at Freshfield Pub car Walk leaders: Steph May: 13th | 27th many benefits. The poles improve park, Massam’s Lane, Time/Place: 3.00pm – Jun: 10th | 24th Formby L37 7BD 3.30pm at Southport posture, increase walking speed Park and Ride, and work the upper body. Eco Centre, Esplanade, Southport PR8 2BZ

18 19 20 FRIDAY levels gradually. like to increasetheirphysicalactivity walk andisidealforpeople whowould and gardenscloseby. Thisisamedium 60 minutesandcircletheprom, parks The Promenade walkswilltake around This walkisopentoeverybody. PR90BY(offNevillStreet) S’port Centre,20Stanley St, & Support Place: MacmillanInformation Time: 1.00pm Walk leaders:Steve,Pat andSteph Walks Promenade Health Southport and achat. at theendforacupofteaorcoffee parks andgreenspaceswithtime 45–60 minutes,thegroupvisitlocal Operawalkswilllast The Sefton first floor.) (Press buzzer, mentionthewalk, Opera, 410StanleyRd,L205AE Church/Sefton Place: StMatthew’s Time: 10.30am Walk leaders:Val andAnne OperaHealthWalksSefton Nature Trail andMarineLake. such asVictoria Park, Jubilee 30–45 minutes,takinginroutes gentle pacedwalksofaround Centralwalksare The Southport PR81RX (reception area),S’port Place: DunesSplashWorld Time: 10.30am Walk leaders:Betty, Peggy andTony Health Walks Central Southport May: 12th Apr: 21st Apr: 7th Jun: 9th Jun: May: 5th Jun: May: 5th Apr: 7th ONGOODFRIDAY PLEASENOTE:NOWALK ONGOODFRIDAY PLEASENOTE:NOWALK 30th 2nd 30th 2nd | 21st | 21st | 23rd | 9th | 9th | 12th | 12th | 26th | 16th | 16th | 28th | 28th | 19th | 19th 23rd | 23rd 23rd | 23rd | 26th | 26th

Time: 1.00pm Stephen, Pat andSteph Walk leaders: Health Walks Formby Macmillan & Southport Kings GardensandVictoria Park. Velvet Trail, MarineLake, JubileeTrail, which includetheseawallpath, coastline catching viewsoftheSefton walk alongthecoastandenjoyeye- approximately 90minutes.Thegroup walks atagoodpaceandthelast The Duneswalksaremediumlength PR81RX seating), S’port (outside themainentranceby Place: DunesSplashWorld, Time: 1.30pm Walk leaders:JeanandTrefor Dunes HealthWalks Sefton andWestSefton Lancs. take placeatvariouslocationsaround first Friday ofeachmonth,the walkwill are foranybodyaffectedbycancer. The The walkstake placeonaFriday and of themediumwalks40–45minutes. can lastforaround20minutesinstead optionmeaningwalks but haveashorter The Macmillanwalksaremedium Jean, Moira,Joan, Jo,

Jun: May: 5th Apr: 7th Freshfield Train Stn Time/Place: 1.00pmat 2nd Jun:Freshfield Rd,Ormskirk Southport Scarisbrick Marina, Time/Place: 1.00pmat 5th May:ScarisbrickMarina Botanic GardensCafe Time/Place: 1.00pmat 7th Apr:BotanicGardens 2nd | 21st | 23rd | 19th

21 FRIDAY 22 SUNDAY SATURDAY 90 minsandareamediumpacewalk. walk. Thewalkslastnolongerthan make timeoneach anoteofthestart throughout theAutumnmonths,please The walks will continue to be fortnightly The walkswillcontinuetobefortnightly NB:AFTERNOONWALKS ADDED! Time: 10.30amor2.00pm and Steph Walk leaders:Margaret,Brenda Sunday HealthWalks Pier andseawall. andsometimesincludesthe main part route stayswithinKingsGardenforthe flexibility toincreaseifneeded,thewalk levels gradually, agentlepacewiththe like tobuilduptheirphysicalactivity This walkisidealforanybodywhowould 30–40 minutestocomplete. at amediumpaceandwilltake around The KingsGardenWalk walk isashort PR81QX S’port Place: Carousel/beginningofPier, Time: 10.30am Walk leader:Steph Kings GardensHealthWalks Walks at2.00pm. start inBLACK Walks at10.30am, inGREYstart

Jun: 10th May: 13th Apr: 1st Hall Road Train Stn Time/Place: 2.00pmat 25th Jun:CrosbytoHightown Freshfield Train Stn Time/Place: 2.00pmat 11thFisherman’s Jun: Path CoastalWalk Ainsdale Train Stn Time/Place: 2.00pmat 28th May:AinsdaleDunesWalk Lydiate Rd) (offSouthport Time/Place: 10.30amatHallLn, 14th May:Lydiate Fields (car park) &CrosbyTrain Stn Time/Place: 2.00pmat 30th Apr:CrosbyCoastalWalk Formby Train Stn Time/Place: 2.00pmat 2nd Apr:Formby Beach ON15THAPRIL PLEASENOTE:NOWALK ONEASTER SUNDAY PLEASENOTE:NOWALK | 29th | 24th | 27th

or itisinneed ofrepair. you don’t haveaccesstooneoryour own We even havebikes availableforuseif and helpyououtwithanyquestions. ofthegroup you feelwelcome,part andrideleaderswillmake participants socialandthe All oftheridesarevery month, coveringanythingupto20miles. the firstandthirdThursdayofeach Mecycle toourAgeConcernrideson ‘Easy Riders’onaFriday morningfrom rides permonth,rangingfromour We haveapproximately18ledcycle cycle rides. and embarkonsome to embracetheoutdoors inclement weatherready temperatures andless days,colder from shorter your step,weemerge hopefully aspringin spring intheairand With adefinitefeelof Cycling Diary

See page28formoredetails. on forwhatprovestobeagreatday. and picturesqueride;socomebook enjoyable be riddenbymostandisavery predominately trafficfree,theroutecan of theborough.At24mileslong,flatand cycle routecircumnavigatesalargearea (21st May).Thebrandnewmapped Circular cycle ride launch ofourSefton ready toride,whynotjoinusforthe andarenow or hadyourbike serviced, If you’veattendedsomeofourledrides Revival’. Seepage13formoredetails. all underthebannerof‘BigBike to getyourbike backintiptopcondition, duringthespringmonths opportunities engulfed bythegarden, wehaveseveral spent toolonginthegarageorbeing If youdohaveaneglectedbike, that’s

23 Tuesday sessions – Rides take place every Wednesday Pedal Away 10.00am – approx 12.00pm Southport and the group meet at: Our longest standing led rides have >  Sports Park > 10.30am grown and evolved along the years Boundary Lane, Litherland L21 7LA Hesketh Centre Hesketh Centre and now boast a ‘Easy Riders’ group Friday sessions – Recharge and refresh your mind and on the corner of Albert Rd/ to act as a spring board for either, 10.00am – approx 13.00pm body with a gentle social cycle ride Park Rd West, S’port newer riders, riders returning to with the Hesketh Centre Mental Health For more information please cycling after some years or riders > MeCycle Café and Wellbeing Team. contact Tony, the group leader, on just seeking a shorter/slower ride. 59 Station Rd, Ainsdale PR8 3HH The rides are open to anyone, they are Tel: 01704 383110 And As with all of our led rides within our cycled at a very easy pace and we never Community Cycle Clubs programme, Easy Riders sessions – leave anyone behind. It’s a great way these rides are ridden at a leisurely pace 10.00am – approx 12.00pm to get some gentle exercise and destress and offer the rider the chance to chat > MeCycle Café at the same time. with like-minded people, not realising 59 Station Rd, Ainsdale PR8 3HH The rides cover a variety of routes the miles are ticking by. Bikes and helmets are available around the Southport area and include a Utilising the plethora of cycle paths for loan – advanced booking required. café stop to refuel. within Sefton and visiting the many Tel: 0151 934 4576 picturesque places within the borough Email: [email protected] you’ll be surprised how far and wide your bike can take you. These rides also encompass either a café stop midway or a chance to grab a brew, a slice of For more information, contact: cake or a sandwich at the end. They are Ride Programme Lucy Holmes – Active Lifestyles open to all, even if you don’t own a bike, Email: [email protected] cycles and helmets are available to use Macmillan Rides Tel: 0151 934 2352 and can be fitted to suit the rider Specifically for people affected by cancer, these rides provide a great tonic to help raise both physical and mental wellbeing. The rides are short and ridden at a very steady pace, lasting approximately 1 hour and staying within Southport, taking in routes such as Kings Gardens and Marine Lake, Victoria Park and the Coastal Path. Feedback from participants has been very positive, providing an incentive to take part and be involved in some gentle exercise. Some bikes are available for use if required.

24 25 Thursday Sessions – On 1st & 3rd Thursday each month Tour de Friends 10.00am – 12.00pm ‘The Chain Gang’ throughout the year. With spring firmly in the air, this > Waterloo Community Centre > Dunes Splash World Thursday morning ride is a great Old School Buildings, Rides for Esplanade, S’port PR8 1RX way to break up your week, get some Great Georges Rd, at 10.00am. enjoyable exercise into your routine the over 50’s Waterloo L22 1RD Apr: 6th | 20th and share a chat and a smile with With the sun on your back and Contact: Bill Cowley May: 4nd | 18th fellow riders. the birds in full song why not join Email: [email protected] Jun: 1st | 15th As the name suggests, we place as the ‘Gang’ and head out into the Tel: 07948 013618 For more information contact: much emphasis on the social side as on countryside and discover good Dawn at Southport Age Concern – the cycling, these rides are the perfect company and great scenery on 01704 542993 or visit the way to get back into cycling after time board your bike. Age Concern office at off the bike, make new friends or simply This is a great group to join if you’re 8 Hoghton Street, S’port PR9 0TF increase your cycling with a great bunch looking to make the step up from of people! your 12 mile ride to the next level. The rides last 2 hours and are ridden at Racking up a distance of about a leisurely pace, no one is left behind 20 miles ridden at a gentle pace, and the routes steers clear of busy roads you’ll be amazed how easy but and built up areas, concentrating instead rewarding it can be to increase your on the wealth of cycle routes Sefton mileage. The ride always incorporates has to offer. After the ride, it’s all back a lunch stop around half way, so there’s to Waterloo Community Centre, with a chance to refuel before returning to the option of staying for the Community Southport for about 2pm. With a wealth Lunch and a further chance to chat of ride leaders and experienced cyclists over an affordable hearty meal. in the group any new participants will be in good hands, assisting with route direction and any mechanical issues that may arise. Don’t worry about expensive cycling kit, come along in appropriate, comfortable clothing and a serviceable bike and you’ll be pleasantly surprised what you can achieve.

26 27 The theme of the day is participation, All sessions are 10.00am – 1.00pm Sefton Circular therefore we are encouraging riders Dr Bike – > Wednesday 10th May to cycle the entire route, however if L30 Community Centre Cycle Ride you only want to ride a section before Free Bicycle Stonyfield, Netherton L30 0QS returning by bike or train then the choice To mark the launch of our new Sefton > Friday 12th May is yours. One of the great things about Circular cycle map, we are holding a Maintenance Venus Centre this route is how accessible it is from cycling day to promote the route and With the launch of the Sefton Circular 215 Lane, Bootle L20 6AD many points within Sefton, making it encourage more people to jump on route just around the corner, we’ve Weather Permitting the ideal way to access different parts their bike and explore Sefton. conveniently put on the spring series of the borough on predominately traffic > Tuesday 16th May of Dr Bikes just in time to get your bike The launch of the route coincides with free routes, whilst enjoying the most Waterloo Community Centre back in action and join in on the ride. ‘2017 the year of Sefton’s Coast’, scenic parts of Sefton. Old School Building, Great Georges a celebration campaign to recognise, Operating out of community venues Road, Waterloo L22 1RD More details of the event and the route promote and enjoy the superb Sefton across South Sefton the bike doctor itself will be advertised nearer the time, > Wednesday 17th May Coastline; the Sefton Circular route can breathe new life into your old steed. but you can check here too: Litherland Youth and takes in many miles of the coastal path, So If your bike has seen plenty of use www.activetravelsefton.co.uk Community Centre before heading inland towards Maghull over the Winter months, or moth balled Twitter: @SeftonTravel 41 Sefton Rd, Litherland L21 9HD and eventually the Leeds since last summer then it could be the Weather Permitting canal, bringing you back to Crosby www.visitseftonandwestlancs.co.uk perfect time to give it a health check > Friday 19th May Lakeside via Rimrose Valley. www.seftoncoast.co.uk/find-an-event to make sure it’s gears are running Brunswick Youth and smoothly and brakes are working Although the ride will be self-led, Check local press for details, Community Centre effectively. Equally, if you have decided all riders when setting off will receive or contact: Marsh Lane, Bootle L20 4JQ a map of the route, including turn by Tel: 0151 934 4576 to dig your old bike out and get back turn directions, there will be directional Email: [email protected] into cycling or you’ve just got yourself markers along the route and we will a new bike, then come along and get have some cycling marshals patrolling it checked out. No booking is required; the route too. however the sessions can be popular and quite busy, so a short wait may Leisure Cycle Routes be necessary. Sefton and the surrounding Work generally undertaken includes: areas are full of cycling routes > Replacing inner tubes

ideal for leisure cycling. > Replacing gear and brake cables

The Sefton Circular is the newest > Replacing brake blocks edition to these maps, from our original > Adjusting brakes Owl and Marram routes located in > Tuning/servicing gears Southport, we now have routes in As this is a mobile service, we may not Maghull, Crosby, Burscough and be able to fix all repairs, if this is the Ormskirk in addition to one which goes Why not give them a try, all the case we will provide you with advice all the way to Wigan. routes are available on the ’VISIT’ on where to take your bike for the work Ranging from 3 miles right through to website for download, to be completed. our Churches and Monuments Route www.visitseftonandwestlancs.co.uk which is 35 miles long, there is bound or you can request a hard copy to be something to suit everyone. via the contact form.

28 29 All tools, parts, bikes and expertise Tuesdays: Tyred Rides is provided, they have a workshop Wheels for All from 12.00pm to 3.00pm Being part of Alchemy Youth programme, and keen knowledgeable and friendly Wheels for All is a nationally recognised Wednesdays: Tyred Rides takes busted bikes and staff ready to pass on their skills programme that enables children and from 10.00am to 3.00pm turns them in to brilliant bikes. to get you involved. adults with disabilities and differing BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL, call: Working with young people to service needs to engage in a quality cycling The Alchemy Youth Club is on at the Cycling Projects on and repair the bikes, they provide skills same time and at the same venue, activity. training and increase knowledge to 01925 234213 so if you have a friend who isn’t Sefton’s centres are equipped with participants in a ‘hands on’ fashion, or Sefton Active Travel on interested in bikes, there’ll be plenty a range of specially adapted cycles the sessions are every Wednesday 0151 934 4576 to book a place. for them to get involved in too. and welcomes individuals, groups evening 5pm–7pm for young people Cycles are also available for hire For more information, please call and families to be involved, subject aged 11–19. at other times and also at Emma or Paul on 01704 380047. to appropriate training. So if you’ve got an interest in riding Dunes Splash World, Or go along any Wednesday, We have two organised sessions bikes, how they work and how to fix Esplanade, Southport PR8 1RX 5pm–7pm, Alchemy Hall (rear of the operating at our main centre in them then Tyred Rides is perfect for you. (subject to conditions). Parenting 2000, Mornington Rd, S’port) Litherland and open access sessions at For more information about the Dunes Splash World, organised group scheme please: sessions run at: Email: [email protected] > Litherland Sports Park Tel: 0151 934 4576 Boundary Lane, Litherland L21 7LA Easter sessions from 9am – 12pm: www.activetravelsefton.gov.uk Ditch your > Thursday 6th April Shoreside Primary School Stabilisers Westminster Drive, We have four sessions of these extremely Ainsdale PR8 2QZ popular activities available during this > Tuesday 11th April Cycles are available from: Spring quarter; proving to be the ideal Litherland Sports Park Freewheeling > Dunes Splash World way for families to get their children riding Boundary Lane, As the title suggests, the scheme is free 01704 537 160 and with a fantastic success rate, these Litherland L21 7LA and offers Sefton residents Over 16 hands on sessions for families offer the > Formby Pool Spring sessions from 9am – 12pm: (conditions apply) the opportunity to 01704 879 366 perfect opportunity to give your children access bikes in order to make cycling > Tuesday 30th May a head start with their cycling. a part of their active lifestyle or, indeed > Litherland Sports Park Litherland Sports Park With support, advice and guidance from join us on one of our led rides. 0151 288 6288 our enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff, Boundary Lane, > MeCycle Café, Ainsdale Litherland L21 7LA Bikes can be loaned for a full or part we provide you with the tools to get your day, during centre opening times. 01704 579 353 or children riding independently without > Thursday 1st June Email: [email protected] To join the scheme, go along to any stabilisers and achieve that real landmark Shoreside Primary School For general enquiries about moment in their lives that they’ll remember Westminster Drive, of the centres listed and take with you the following identification: the scheme: for years to come. Ainsdale PR8 2QZ Tel. 0151 934 4576 • A recent utility bill (Gas, water, Great News! We’ve partnered up with BOOKING IS Email: [email protected] electricity or telephone) Sefton Children’s University, so by ESSENTIAL attending one of our sessions your child To book, tel: • Any personal photographic can now gain a stamp for their passport. 0345 1400845 identification (Passport, Don’t forget to bring passports on the day! driver’s licence or travel pass)

30 31 Summer Newsletter out June 2017 For great walks and rides throughout Sefton and beyond, pick up Sefton’s Walking and Cycling Newsletter from your GP surgery, Library and Leisure Centre and other community venues, download a copy at www.activetravelsefton.co.uk or for more information contact Sefton’s Highway Safety Team on 0345 1400845.

For help planning your journey: Or use the For help planning Merseytravel website your journey to to plan your journey attend one of www.merseytravel. our walks, rides gov.uk – for bus or other activities timetables/routes download our and train timetables. ‘SeftonTravel’ App – Download the available for free Merseytravel App on iOS and Android. to your smart phone. Or contact Traveline on 0151 236 7676.

This newsletter has been developed General enquiries: by Sefton Council. The newsletter details [email protected] the different activities organised and Further information is available at: promoted by the Walking & Cycling www.activetravelsefton.co.uk Team throughout the Spring, including www.sefton.gov.uk how to get involved. www.visitseftonandwestlancs.co.uk For general enquiries call – www.merseytravel.gov.uk Sefton Plus on 0345 1400845 Calls cost 2p per minute plus your telephone company’s access charge. [email protected] 0151 934 2824 [email protected] 0151 934 4576