South Cotswold Ramblers’ Group Newsletter - February 2014

Published each year in February, June and October. We look forward to hearing from you with stories, opinions, photos, poetry, art, funny tales, cartoons, appeals, you name it. This edition was edited by Sally Davis 01453 872729, email: [email protected]

A NEW YEAR’S MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Happy New Year to you all. I hope Ramblers and rambling featured in your New Year's resolutions and like me you are looking forward to another year of activities with South Cots. There should be plenty to keep you Aamused. By the time you read this our annual lunch should have come and gone, weather permitting. With numbers standing at 47 Sally continues to break all records and she is to be thanked for all her hard work in arranging this popular event. Thanks also to Pam whose golf club membership allows us to use the facilities.

Unfortunately not quite as many attended the AGM, although we had a very good meeting. Perhaps we should consider holding the AGM at the Annual Lunch! All committee members offered themselves for re-election except for John Corry, who will continue on the Footpath Committee, and Kathy Bullen who stood down as publicity officer after many years in various roles with South Cots and the Ramblers organisation. Thanks to both of them for their work on the Committee.

Following the meeting Andrew Hawkins volunteered as a Committee member. It’s always good to get new members with new ideas particularly when they have a considerable effect on the average age of the Committee. We are still looking for a Publicity Officer. This can be a very interesting and rewarding job. Interesting because it’s really up to you to make what you like of it. Rewarding because it can play an important role in raising the profile of the group. Rewards can also have more personal results. Trying a bit of publicity myself I recently sent a photograph and article to Country Walking Magazine for which I received a pair of walking socks. Now how good can that be!

On the holiday front we have an exciting year in prospect. In June Mike is taking a party to the Lake District with HF Holidays. This should prove an exciting experience for everybody with levels of walking to suit all abilities. In September I am leading a holiday to Dunster and the Yarn Market Hotel, which has a very good reputation with Ramblers Groups. Don't think that Mike and I have sole rights where the organisation of holidays is concerned. If there is anybody out there who would like to give it a go please speak to us. It can be quite good fun.

Our walks coordinators continue to put together exciting and interesting programmes and this year we can look forward to The Ice Cream Walk. If you haven't lead a walk before and would like to give it a try, please don't be afraid to come forward and, everybody, don't wait to be asked but ring the coordinators as early as possible to offer walks.

As usual we are indebted to our Footpath Committee for the work which they carry out. On the 1st April the PROW work is being transferred to the outside contractor, not necessarily a bad thing but something which must be carefully monitored and which could involve our own committee in more work.

A number of our members are experiencing health problems at the moment and we wish them all a speedy recovery. I would like to mention Brian Kirkman, former Chairman, holiday organiser and long time Group member and hope that he will soon be feeling better.

So another year coming up of challenges and opportunities. I enjoy my volunteer work with Ramblers and if you are involved as a volunteer, in whatever capacity, it is important that you do as well. Good luck and happy walking for the next 12 months. Richard Davis, Chairman

oing away with Ramblers Holidays? We have recently received a sum of money for Group Funds from Ramblers Holidays where members taking a holiday with them have nominated South GCotswold Group. If you forget to tell them when booking, there is still time if you contact them before you go. By your doing so, they will donate £10, £20 or even £30 per person to our funds to be used to benefit walkers. For more info, click the link to Walking Partnership on our Messages page. DUNSTER WALKING HOLIDAY Sun 7 Sept to Thu 11 Sept 2014 – Leaders Richard & Diana Davis tel: 01453 762373

Our Autumn holiday for 2014 is to be at Dunster on the edge of Those wishing to book please return the form below together Exmoor and the Quantock Hills staying at the Yarn Market Hotel. with a non returnable deposit of £10 per person for the hotel plus a further £20 per person for expenses and the walks The Hotel Is situated next to the Yarn Market in the middle of the guide. Please return this form together with a stamped village. Dunster has medieval origins, with a famous castle (NT) addressed envelope and a cheque for £30 per person and is regarded as one of the gateways to the Exmoor National payable to South Cotswold Ramblers by the 28th February to:- Park. Hotel facilities include:- Diana & Richard Davis, 22 Glen Park Crescent, Kingscourt, Stroud GL5 5DT • Individually styled en-suite rooms with tea and coffee making The balance of the holiday money will be payable facilities, hair dryer and TV direct to the hotel at the end of the holiday. • Full buffet style breakfast • A lounge bar and residents sitting room • A drying room • Choice of evening meals • Packed lunches can be provided for £5 per person per day • Limited car parking outside the hotel but there are arrangements for parking with the council car park

Gallox Bridge, Dunster

Yarn Market and the Hotel Walks Diana and I will be arranging walks on the days of arrival and departure as well as a walk in conjunction with the West Somerset Steam Railway on the Tuesday. We have the opportunity to hire a local guide for the Monday and Wednesday at a cost of £100 per day and providing enough people come we will be availing ourselves of this at a total cost of £10 per person payable on booking.

Cost The cost of the hotel for 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast is £300 per person. There is a single supplement of £10 per person per night. In addition to this there will be a small payment for organisers expenses of £10 per person and a further £10 per person for the guided walks. The overall cost will therefore be £320 per person sharing a double or twin room and £360 for a single room. ------Dunster Walking Holiday Sun 7 Sept to Thu 11 Sept 2014 I/We would like to book the following accommodation :-: 1) A double room @ £320 per person ( ) 2) A twin room @ £320 per person ( ) 3) A single room @ £360 ( )

I enclose a cheque payable to South Cotswold Ramblers for £______(£30 per person including £10 non-refundable deposit). * EITHER I enclose a SAE for acknowledgement * OR Please acknowledge by email to ……………………………………………………………………………………………….... Please book no later than 28 February If this date has passed, please phone 01453 762373 to see if there is any room. The balance of the holiday money will be payable direct to the hotel at the end of the holiday.

Signed Date

To Diana & Richard Davis, 22 Glen Park Crescent, Kingscourt, Stroud GL5 5DT

PRINT FIRST & SURNAME(S)………………………………………………………...... ….……………………………………

Address………………………………………………………………………………...... …

…...... Tel no……………...... ….…………………. WITH RAMBLERS TO DUBROVNIK Last October Di and I went with Ramblers Holidays to Dubrovnik and found it to be a thoroughly enjoyable holiday, although one of Rambler's easier walking offerings. We were met at the airport by our Ramblers guide, a Canadian, whose parents were Croatian and who had an enthusiasm and pride in the area which was almost infectious. Our hotel was very comfortable and situated a short bus ride from the old city. Highlights of our visit included a day island hopping on the Elaphite Islands, a group of islands just off the coast. We landed on each island for a short walk and a look around.

Dubrovnik with the Elaphite Islands beyond

Dubrovnik itself was quite awe inspiring and after a morning spent walking round the walls and exploring some of the narrow alleyways of the old town we went across to Lokrum a small island and nature reserve off the coast. Here we also had a swim in the salt water lagoon known locally as the dead sea.

View from the walls across the bay We revisited Dubrovnik on our day off taking the opportunity for further exploration on the old Town and also a trip up Mount Srd where there is a very interesting museum commemorating the Homeland War which resulted in the break up of old Yugoslavia back in the early nineties. We had another visit to the Old Town when our Ramblers guide offered to take us in after dinner one evening and we sat in the square at a cafe listening to a jazz band playing.

Dubrovnik from Srd Other excursions included a walk from the hotel round Babin Kuk then north along the hilltops, our only wet day, a trip up the north coast to Ston, where we walked through the salt flats and up into the hills working up an appetite for local oysters on our return, and a walk to the village of Cavtat to the south of Dubrovnik.

Cavtat Harbour

All in all we can say that Dubrovnik is a town we would both like to visit again.

Richard & Diana Davis

Walking on Gran Canaria with HF Holidays In October 2013 Patrick and Angela Marks enjoyed a week’s holiday staying at Mogan on the island of Gran Canaria. The hotel accommodation was excellent, consisting of a flatlet with a sitting room and small kitchen in addition to the bedroom and bathroom. Unlike the majority of visitors to the Canaries, little was seen of the beaches, but spectacular scenic walks were enjoyed in the interior of the island. Each day a small bus would transport the two groups up the precipitous zig-zag roads to the starting place of the walk. The terrain was rough and rocky, but softened by beautiful Canary pines. The leaders were friendly and efficient, making frequent stops for the guests to drink water, as the temperature was at around 25C. On the last day a walk was taken to the Roque Nublo, held sacred by the Guanchos (original inhabitants) in the centre of the island. Afterwards, the route led along a balcony path along the rim of Caldera de Tejeda from which there were dramatic views.This was a successful holiday and provided some late summer sunshine before the November drizzle at home.

Canary Pines back lit by sunshine Roque Nublo Angela and Pat en route for Roque Nublo HF Centenary Walk October 6th 2013

To celebrate the centenary of HF Holidays (formerly Holiday Fellowship), walkers were invited to join special walks from several of their country houses. Mike and Heather Garner enjoyed a walk in Dorset in the spring and we opted for a seven and a half mile walk from Harrington House at Bourton on the Water. As we drove towards Bourton on a beautiful morning, the shallow valley was wreathed in mist, gloriously back lit by the sun. We were greeted with a cup of coffee and then set off with our leader, Jill, walking to Lower and Upper Slaughter with a return route beside the river Windrush. Twenty walkers had chosen our walk, while walks of different distance were provided for others. Many had driven from other parts of the country and it was pleasantly sociable to talk to them as we walked. On our return to Bourton on the Water HF provided everyone with tea, scones and cake, free of charge!

Patrick and Angela Marks

Guess whose feet these are! If you read your newsletter very carefully, you will be able to find the answer. On the other hand (or foot!), you might actually recognise them. Answer is on the back page.

What a good time we all had at our Annual Lunch at Minchinhampton Golf Club! Our very own poet, John Lang, has penned this poem “I’ve got tadpoles”

The woodland and young green shoots start peeking Slowly growing through the mask of out anonymity Ha ha! they shout It wore when winter knocked with icy We had you fooled! blows You thought we'd died Pretending not to hear at all Didn't you? Steadfastly faced towards the call In glowing pride they seem to gloat Of life The horse has taken off its coat and pairs of ducks Now pregnant trees in silence sway Swim side by side Embryonic leaves in ignorant bliss Just saying hello...for now Unaware of their role to play Darting Blue Tits catch the eye In months to come Househunting in a hole nearby When the midwife's kiss It seems to be their lucky day Has brought rebirth and hope once more No mortgages or bills to pay Except the price of failure It's bright It's new Tangled fronds of ferns and weeds It's sweet and last year’s reeds in waters lie It's clear The seething frogs in frantic haste Infect it not Leave great black blobs of jellied With your ancient stifling bitter spawn chores Another generation borne Of yesteryear But most of their efforts will go to waste The taste of the air As kids with buckets and ice cream The swollen stream tubs The sunlight gleam on distant hills With empty jars or Mum's best jug A host from Wordsworth's sharpened Collect the eggs in greedy scoopings quills from the pool Then take them home to watch them grow The rich black earth and smirk at luckless friends at Still damp and cool school Is pushed aside "I've got tadpoles"

Footpath Update How effective is our footpath work? That’s a question I’ve asked myself quite a lot lately. It’s easy to get dispirited if you look at the overall statistics for our county. In 2013 there were roughly 2,450 new problems concerning rights of way recorded on the Gloucester County Council website. We don’t know how many of these problems were resolved but the previous year the council reported that 60% of its new problems had been marked as complete. I doubt that matters have improved since then which suggests that an awful lot of reported problems are not being addressed. The picture appears a little different however when we look at things within the South Cotswold area. During the last three months of 2013 there were five problems reported to us which we took up with the Public Rights of Way team at GCC. Two of these have since been resolved and the other three are likely to be so fairly soon, which is very encouraging. I wish I could say the same for problems encountered by the Footpath Sub-committee on their travels! Of the five problems reported none have so far been actioned. It is tempting to reach the conclusion that to get a satisfactory outcome you need both the Ramblers and a member of the public to be involved. Our other areas of activity have been at a fairly low-level. There were no new planning applications affecting rights of way during the above period although a couple of visits were made in relation to existing cases to satisfy ourselves that there was no need to lodge an objection. On the footpath clearance side, five visits were made resulting in the clearance of 13 stiles, 4 bridges and 180 metres of footpath. Only one of these visits concerned a problem reported by a member of the public. The remainder were paths that we clear regularly or were new ones encountered during survey work. Bob Frewin Footpath Secretary Public Rights of Way Quiz - Part Four Q11. Can a farmer plough up a footpath? A. Yes, as long as (a) he makes good the surface to make it reasonably convenient, and (b) he indicated the line of the path so it is apparent. This must be done within 14 days of ploughing. Q12. What is the minimum width of a Public Right of Way? A. Crossfield FP 1 metre, Crossfield bridleway 2 metres Field edge FP 1.5 metres, Field edge bridleway 3 metres. Q13 Is a crop an obstruction on a PRoW? A. Yes, and a farmer is required to remove it to provide the required minimum width. This can be a particular problem with oilseed rape, which collapses over a cleared path, and maize, which can grow 8 feet high. Q14. When can a bull be legally kept in a field with a PRoW running through it? A. When it is under 10 months old, or when it is a beef bull accompanied by cows or heifers. Answers are based on "Rights of Way" by Riddall and Trevelyan (Ramblers and Open Spaces Society. More next time …Mike

Welcome to New Members At the last count we had a total of 398 members in our group. We have about 165 regular group walkers (thankfully not all at once!) and over 65 leaders. On top of this many volunteer for other roles such as footpath work and general administration of the group. In the last few months we have very pleased to welcome new members Heather, Kelvin, Sally, Andrew, Alison, Stefan, Kathlyn, David, Jeremy, Maria, Carol, Meg, Frank, Judith, Anthea, Derek, Paul, Chris, Alan, Jo, John and Richard. We hope that you will enjoy being members of the Ramblers in general and our group in particular. Many of you have tried walking with us and we look forward to seeing you soon. If you would like to help the Group in any way, please don't hesitate to contact one of us. Mike Garner - Group Membership Secretary

FAMILY WALKS The Rodborough Walks are continuing this year and in order to attempt to attract a wider group of walkers the first two walks will be designated family walks. Walkers will be encouraged to bring children along. The walks will be taken at a very easy pace and will be less than three miles. So if you have children, grand children or great grand children please bring them along. The scouts are hoping to put together an I-spy game to make the walk entertaining for the children. You don't have to be a child or have children to join us. Everybody is welcome and everybody can join in the fun. Richard Davis

If you wish to put any items in At the beginning of March Bernard is leading a walk where hopefully we will see a 5* Severn Bore. If you have never seen one, it is an impressive tidal wave of water the next newsletter (which will caused by the tide from the Atlantic Ocean entering the Bristol Channel and forcing its go out in June), please send way into the , filtering into a narrow channel and causing the water to them to Sally Davis rise by anything up to 15 metres. The water reaches speeds of up to 20 kmph as it ([email protected]) by nears Minsterworth and, as the width of the River Severn narrows, becomes held up 5th MAY causing the natural bore phenomenon. Very atmospheric at night, as well. GROUP VOLUNTEERS 2013-14 Website: Mike Garner & Sally Davis Chairman: South Cots Newsletter: Sally Davis Richard Davis 01453 762373 Area Newsletter: Angela Marks [email protected] Footpath Chairman and Footpath Secretary: Vice Chairman: Bob Frewin 01453 545752 Mike Garner 01453 873625 [email protected] [email protected] Footpath Committee Minutes Secretary: Group Secretary: John Corry 01453 845574 [email protected] Bernard Smith 01453 884013 Footpath Clearance [email protected] Bob Frewin Group Treasurer: Footpath Committee Members: Brian Witcombe 01453 872220 Penny Fernando, John Clayton [email protected] Led Walks Programme Co-ordinator: Membership Secretary, Book Sales: Mike Garner 01453 873625 Mike Garner 01453 873625 [email protected] [email protected] Led Walks Collectors for March - June 2014: Publicity Officer: John Geoghegan 01453 873625 Weekend Walks Vacant Anne Eamer 01453 842551 Start the Week Walks Without portfolio: Enid Sutcliffe 01242 863283 Midweek Walks Kathy Bullen, Diana Davis, Andrew Hawkins Mike Garner 01453 873625 Evening Walks

ORCHESTRAL CONCERT VISIT The next concert will be held on Saturday March 29th at 7.30 pm at Holy Trinity Church, Trinity Rd., Stroud, (next to the General Hospital). Programme: :Walton Johannesburg Festival Overture :Brahms Violin Concerto - Soloist: John Pearce* :Dvorak Symphony No 7 and we invite you to join members there and take part in the sociable interval chat.

Listen to extracts at www.stroudsymphony.org.uk Please order your tickets on the form below, or from Stroud Tourist Information (01453 760960), or ask me on a walk or just come along on the night. Advance info Saturday June 28th concert contains works by Arnold, Vaughan Williams, Holst and Elgar. Mike Garner 01453 873625 *John Pearce is a British-born violinist who plays classical concertos and improvisatory jazz. Enjoy this fascinating 33 minute video. Short of time? Start at 27 mins. http://tinyurl.com/videoJohnPearceJazz

Stroud Symphony Orchestra Concert Whose socks ? These amazing socks are Sat 29 March at 7:30 pm at Holy Trinity Church, Stroud being modelled by (next to the hospital with parking opposite) Richard, our Chairman, To Mike Garner, Southcot, who received them as a The Headlands, North Woodchester, Stroud GL5 5PS. free gift from Country Please send me the following tickets: Walking magazine for ...... @ £10 / ...... reduced @ £8 (both £1 more on door) / giving them an article ...... accompanied children under 14 free. about The Ice Cream I enclose a cheque for £...... payable to Stroud Symphony Orchestra and a Walk. The rewards for Stamped Addressed Envelope for the despatch of tickets. being PUBLICITY Signed OFFICER could be Date even greater! Please print your name and phone number below Name…………………………………….. Tel no:…………………………………… GLOUCESTERSHIRE AREA NEWS

February 2014 Editor: This edition is typeset and layout designed by: Angela Marks email: [email protected] The Ramblers’ Association is a registered charity (England & Wales no 1093577, Scotland no Area News is issued three times a year in February, SC039799) and a company limited by guarantee, June and October. Items of news and suggestions or other registered in England & Wales (no 4458492). features are always welcome. Registered office: 2nd floor, Camelford House, 87-90 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TW Deadline dates: 6th January, 6th May and 6th September Chairman’s Report Firstly thanks to our outgoing chairman Richard Davis, membership secretary Mike Garner and webmaster Nichola Goodliffe for their work over the past few years. We're also grateful to Des Smythe and all at Mid-Glos Group for hosting the AGM in December. Foremost in our minds is funding cuts over at the County Council where Public Rights of Way is being outsourced. A poll currently running on Ramblers’ website suggests the quality of footpaths is in decline - a theme followed by Radio Gloucestershire late last year. In response a number of members have said they'd like to try to help Maria Castellina from Central Office with Gloucestershire Area with secateurs and loppers (or perhaps being an Officers at our December AGM. organiser) so if you're able to offer some time please contact your group or drop an email to our new box This year is the 40th anniversary of our first group, [email protected] . Cirencester. To celebrate they have a number of events The attached Group reports show the way our footpath based on walks and events in their first year. Meanwhile teams seek to resolve diversions and obstructions. Again GWG has added young 20-30s walks, some groups are we're not sure of resources we may need but please let testing 5 mile walks and we'll be at the 5th Winchcombe us know if you're willing to help have a look if there's an Walking Festival May 16-18th. issue near you. We're learning more about new media such as Facebook, Ramblers’ aim is to keep footpaths open for walking. The Twitter and Wordpress as a way of promoting walking, benefits of enjoying our heritage and countryside, walking all of which makes for an interesting challenge. for health and tourism to our local communities, can't be I look forward to meeting you and hearing your views - overstated. County plans for the Cotswold Way and the perhaps on a walk! See you soon. Gloucestershire Way at the Air Balloon may need our feedback too. http://a417missinglink.co.uk/the-solution/ Bernard Gill [email protected] GLOUCESTERSHIRE AREA MID-WEEK WALKS Map numbers: E = Explorer; OL = Outdoor Leisure; LR = Landranger. Sorry, no dogs! 2014 Wed 5 Mar 10:00 10m Around Avening Andy & Wendy- 01453 885498 Minchinhampton Reservoir CP (E168/LR162) SO 854013. Gatcombe, Avening, Weighbridge. Medium to hard walk. Picnic. Wed 12 Mar 10:00 10m ‘Paddy’s walk’ from Mitcheldean Catherine - 01452 615382 Meet at Wilderness CP on A4136 (OL14) SO 659171. Down to Mitcheldean, up to , then down to Longhope and up following the Gloucestershire Way to the top. Picnic. Wed 19 Mar 10:00 10m Sugar Loaf Catherine - 01452 615382 Park on side of road alongside the Bell Pub, Glanyrwyney, on A40 (after going through Abergavenny) (OL13) SO 239163. This is a delightful hill, virtually a mountain with wonderful views in all directions. Route via Llangenney with 596m ascent. Picnic. Tue 25 Mar 10:00 9.5m Much Marcle Diana - 01242 578777 or 07528 697023 (walk morning) Park considerately in Much Marcle and meet on road near church (E189/LR149) SO 658327. Walk Ridge Hill, Woolhope, back up to the hill and down again. Will be taken very gently! Picnic. Possible pub for drinks. Wed 2 Apr 10:00 11m Hills and valleys around the south of Gloucester David & Henrietta - 01452 302024 or 07831 234790 (walk morning) Robinswood Country Park CP - small CP in Fox Elms Rd. NOT Reservoir Rd. Visitor Centre. (Off A4173 Stroud Rd. at top of the hill, then 2nd left up to CP.) (E179/LR162) SO 835147. Two climbs in the morning, easier afternoon. Robinswood Hill, Sneedhams Green, Cud Hill, Edge, Harescombe, Brookthorpe, Whaddon. Picnic. Wed 9 Apr 10:00 10m North Malverns Summits Janet & Geoff - 01531 650349 or 07933 737891 (walk morning) British Camp CP (£3 for day) (E190/LR150) SO 763403. Walk Evendine, Colwall, Mathon Lodge Farm to End Hill (Picnic lunch), then visiting all the Northern Malverns Summits (North Hill, Table Hill, Sugar Loaf Hill, Worcestershire Beacon) and back along the ridge to British Camp. Wed 16 Apr 10:00 11.5m Hornsleaslow Des - 01242 245666 or 07939 615749 (walk morning) Hornsleaslow Quarry (disused) Limited parking - fill cars (OL45/LR150) SP 130322. Walk Hinchwick Manor, Jackdaws Castle, Cutsdean, Hornsleaslow farm. Mostly undulating. Picnic. Wed 23 Apr 10:00 11m Shakespeare 450th Birthday Walk Roy - 01242 245488 or 07766 413176 (walk morning) Park at the Bell pub CP (far end), Welford-on-Avon. Please consider patronising pub at end of walk (E205) SP 148522. Easy going walk from Welford-on-Avon to Weston-on Avon, Clifford Chambers, Stratford-upon- Avon, Monarch's Way, Avon Valley footpath, Luddington Lock. Picnic. Wed 30 Apr 10:00 10m Stanton Arnold - 01242 603576 or 7789 317291 (walk morning) CP next to Stanton Cricket Club (OL45/LR150) SP 067343. Walk Stanway, Stumps Cross, Taddington, Shenberrow Hill, Buckland, Laverton. Picnic. Tue 6 May 10:00 9m Ledbury Diana - 01242 578777 or 07528 697023 (walk morning) Park in Ledbury - numerous car parks - Bridge St.(£1.50), Lawnside Rd., Bye St.(£2.50). Meet by Bye Street toilets -signed from the High St. (E190/LR149 SO 710376. Walk Arknell farm, Coddington, Herefordshire trail. Picnic. Wed 14 May 10:00 11.5m Forest of Dean Wander Mike I - 01594 562341 Meet at Wenchford Picnic Area (OL14) SO 655080. Walk Oldcroft, Mallard's Pike, Staple-Edge, Soudley, Blaize Bailey, Soudley (again) and Broome Hill. Moderate with two stiles. Picnic. Wed 21 May 10:00 10m Painswick Circle Ann & Gerry - 01242 511679 or 07901 503834 (walk morning) Park on side of unfenced road that crosses the golf course 400m SSW of Painswick Beacon (E179/LR162) SO 867117. A circle around Painswick to Edge and the valley bottom passing Paradise. Picnic. Wed 28 May 10:00 10m Woolhope Susanne - 01453 757212 or 07768 403530 (walk morning) Woolhope Village Hall CP (E189/LR149) SO 610360. Walk Haugh Wood, Wye Valley Way, Sollers Hope and Marcle Ridge. Picnic. Wed 4 Jun 09:45 10.5m Brimpsfield Ken - 01242 573717 Brimpsfield Village Hall CP. Share cars if possible. Please note earlier start time (E179/LR162) SO 939128. Buckle Wood, Cranham, Sheepscombe, Whiteway, Miserden, Caudle Green, Eddington valley. Picnic. Wed 11 Jun 10:00 10m Garway Hill Susanne - 01453 757212 or 07768 403530 (walk morning) Park by the side of Garway common, off minor road to south of pub (E189/LR149) SO 466225. An undulating walk going up to and around Garway hill passing near Kentchurch and taking in parts of the Herefordshire trail. Picnic. Wed 18 Jun 10:00 12m Bath Spectacular Guy - 01242 251412 or 07968 797186 (walk morning) Meet Selwyn Hall CP Box (just off A4 at top of village) (E156) ST 824685. Bring bus pass if eligible. This is a (hilly) linear walk on the last stage of the Palladian Way. AM Walk to Monkton Farleigh, Warleigh Woods, The Dundas Aqueduct & the Kennet and Avon canal. Good café lunch or picnic at Brassknocker Basin. PM Monckton Combe, Prior Park Estate, (bring NT card if a member) descend into Bath via Widcombe. Tea after. Return to Box on local bus. Please ring leader for possible car sharing. Wed 25 Jun 10:00 10m Cleeve Hill Hazel - 01232 254105 or 07884 094363 (walk morning) Quarry CP near Cleeve Hill golf club (E179/LR163) SO 989272. Cleeve Hill, Cockbury Butts, Stanley Mount, Winchcombe, Winchcombe Way, Humblebee Cottages, Belas Knap, Wontley Farm, . Picnic.

REMINDER - GRWalks lists all the led walks from Area Mid-Week Walks, the seven geographical Gloucestershire groups and the Gloucestershire Walking Group (for 20s 30s & 40s) in convenient date order. See www.gloucestershirearearamblers.org.uk NO COMPUTER? Send one or more 9x6 inch SAEs to editor Mike Garner (GRWalks), Southcot, The Headlands, Stroud GL5 5PS. GROUP REPORTS South Cotswold Our Walks Programme continues to thrive with 43 extinguishments. They are also involved in path walks in the current programme covering November clearing where there are obstructions caused by to February. Numbers on walks are being well vegetation and are able to attend to those reported to maintained even in the rain. November saw the first them fairly quickly. In our last annual report leg of our Ice Cream Walk being completed over the Bob Frewin reported in the last year over 80 man next year in 8 stages from Winstones Ice Cream hours spent on clearing more than 50 separate Factory on Rodborough Common to Uphill near paths in the South . Although not part of the Weston Super Mare. The 80+ mile walk has attracted South Cotswold Group activities we should some useful publicity in the local press and also also mention the work of Stroud Rambling Club with Country Walking Magazine. The picture below shows footpaths. We sometimes tend to be a bit critical of us at Winstones on the first stage. affiliated clubs who seem to exist only for walking and do not involve themselves so much in the additional work which we carry out as Ramblers. Some years ago the Stroud Club embarked on an exercise to walk over all footpaths in the Stroud area on a grid square basis. This project has been completed but they continue to carry out regular walks to monitor and rectify problems where possible. A further three kissing gates have been installed as part of our programme financed by the sale of Walks Books bringing the total in excess of 25. On the social side some 20+ Group members recently attended a concert given by Stroud Symphony On the holiday front we are looking forward to trips to Orchestra who performed Elgar's Overture Cockaigne, the Lake District in June, organised by Mike Mozart Piano Concerto No 20 with soloist Katya with HF Holidays and to Dunster in September Apekisheva and Brahms Symphony No 3. staying at the Yarn Market Hotel. The Footpath Committee are still beavering away, Richard Davis, Chairman examining proposals for path diversions and

North Cotswold North Cotswold Group continues to be active and We enjoyed good weather and views of Stowe provide a walks programme featuring 2 walks per Landscape Gardens, Blenheim Park and the ruined month with a high proportion of “Figures of 8” to allow hall in Minster Lovell. In 2014 we plan to complete the maximum flexibility. Attendance at walks in 2013 has route to Bath with the promise of more Palladian reduced slightly partly due to fitness issues amongst architecture to come and some good pub lunch stops. some of the Group stalwarts. Email reminders have now been re-instated which has undoubtedly had an In 2013 the Group entered into a new agreement with impact on attendance. The winter programme has The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens to provide materials focussed on “local” walks including a number of to be used for the maintenance and improvement of “Sparkling Walks” which can be conveniently offered as local footpaths. Some of the proceeds from the sales Figure of 8 walks. Our last walk of 2013 included a tour of North Cotswold Diamond Way and Sparkling Walks of a large solar farm ( ~60 acres) just off the A44 near guidebooks have been transferred to a “Materials Blockley. To compensate walkers for this little bit of Account” at a local timber merchant. The North personal indulgence a warm glass of mulled wine and Cotswold Group will identify footpath problems and Festive nibbles awaited them at the end of the walk. agree work to be carried out by The Cotswold Wardens. If you are walking the Diamond Way or a In 2013 our linear walk (with minibus support) took us “Sparkling Walk” and see a footpath problem please let from Buckingham to Hatherop on The Palladian Way. me know and we will investigate. Sue Salmon New Year’s Day and chucking it down with rain, so I’m Forest of Dean Ramblers not sure that we will be so well represented as in past We have enjoyed our usual varied programme this years when we have been known to have close on 50 year for which we heartily thank all walk leaders. people turn out for a New Year’s Day excursion. For Seventeen of us and 1 dog had another trip away to once I consider a bad head cold to be fortuitous which Lake Buttermere in September and stayed at the is why I’m here and not there honest! Ramblers Hassness House. We appreciated the On 22nd January 2014 we shall be holding our first food, the views, the weather and the walks, and were social of the year in the form of a talk by a leader from surprised to discover that our guide came from HF holidays, explaining their history and all that they Ledbury. Our walks covered mountains and lakes can offer to groups such as ours. This will also be a and were both long and short to suit all abilities. “bring and share” supper but with the added incentive Although one should be wary of fit smooth talking of free wine to help our “social” along. We have held guides who might lead the less fit of us to attempt several quiz nights and are investigating other ideas walks we should think more than twice about, and I for social evenings such as a group dinner. speak from personal experience here! But it was all great fun and we concluded that we would probably, Our next trip away is planned for April and we are almost all of us, do it again! venturing to countryside just outside of Aberystwyth, Our AGM was well attended with the “bring and share” which will be a far shorter drive than the 6 hours up to supper providing a good table for everyone including the Lake District. Again this venture has proved vegetarians. We have some changes, plus three new popular and we are just short of filling a 17 roomed members to welcome onto our committee, so all-in-all hotel. We wish all Ramblers a Happy and Healthy a very successful evening. New Year and hope to see you in the Forest of Dean in 2014. Our walks in the forest and beyond have been well June Burden attended through the year, although as I write it is

Cirencester Ramblers steep slope on the Miserden estate This work is in The group has had very good attendance on their addition to our Footpath Volunteers who are winter walks with 34 walkers on 15th December for systematically surveying, yard by yard, all 288 miles of their Christmas lunch walk, when they amused early paths in the Cirencester Area. morning shoppers by parading through the town in The coming year will be a busy one as it is the 40th their festive gear. More members joined them for Anniversary of the group with many events planned. lunch at Ingleside House afterwards. Each month in 2014 we will recreate one of the Our Footpath Secretary Richard Holmes has created original walks from the first year of the group’s a new group called “Path Maintenance Volunteers” existence. We are dedicating a Memorial Gate to (PMV) who will be working to keep paths open and Peter & Jean Clemence (inaugural members of the improve access. (We will be supplementing the work group) in recognition of their contribution over many of Cotswold Wardens in the areas they do not cover.) years. This is already in hand. On 9th November in very inclement weather they Pat Beckley managed to clear a “non exsistent” path on a very

thanks to a previous treasurer, Don Evans, taking on Cleeve Group the duties for this year only. Next AGM we will need a Firstly I would like to wish everyone a Happy Walking new Treasurer and Secretary. New Year. Cleeve Group enjoyed an active 2013 and The winter walks programme is well under way and are hoping for the same in 2014. despite some mud we have had some very pleasant Our October break in ST Ives with HF was excellent, walks. The spring programme is under construction the weather was good and the walks and leaders and should be complete shortly. likewise. We have still to finalise our spring trip, either The group footpaths committee is again meeting bi- dates or destination. monthly and working its way eagerly through the Cleeve AGM was fairly well attended and all offices issues raised. were filled, however that of treasurer was only filled Brian Payne

walk around the local loch and also up the nearby Gloucester Ramblers mountain and, having got suitably muddy, some also On top of our Christmas Party a group of us also went had a go at the fancy dress in full 'used condition' to Scotland for the New Year (Party all the way with walking gear...but despite the authentic appearance Gloucester Ramblers - and we also walk we didn't win any prizes....a bit of failure in the humour occasionally!!). Apart from day trips and a traditional department I'm afraid. Scottish New Year we put our walking boots on for a David Sanderson South Cotswold Ramblers Our Walks - March 2014

Sat 1 Mar morning 5m M Frampton Mansell Wed 19 Mar morning 5.75m M/H Around Randwick Olivia - 01453 751716 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from Steve & Rosemary - 01453 860130 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start Frampton Mansell, park in the overflow car park at the rear of from Randwick, outside the Vine Tree. Park in adjacent Car Park the Crown Inn.http://tinyurl.com/mapFramptonMansCrown or use pub Car Park if visiting afterwards. L162/E179 SO 829068 L163/E168 SO 923027 Westley farm, Chalford valley, Oldhills http://tinyurl.com/mapRandwickVineTree via Bread Street, wood, Thames and Severn canal. Pub lunch at end. Pitchcombe, Edge Common and Bird in Hand. The Vine Tree is recommended for its good food. Mon 3 Mar morning 4m L See 5* Severn Bore & do an easy paced walk Bernard - 01453 884013 on day Sat 22 Mar day 9.5m L/M Dymock and Kempley Green 07816 834828 Meet 08:50 for 09:00 prompt start from lay-by on Andrew - 01452 857958 on day 07900 390351 Meet 09:50 for West side of Elmore Road. just before half timbered black & 10:00 start from Queen's Wood CP, 0.25 mile south of Kempley white house. (over canal at Sellars Bridge & straight on). Green. http://tinyurl.com/mapQueensWood L149/E189; E190; L162/E179 SO 789150 http://tinyurl.com/mapElmore Route:- OL14 SO 678284 A walk along the Daffodil Way in the countryside walk to river (5 star bore forecast), Severn Way, Elmore Back, that inspired the 'Dymock Poets'. Passing through Dymock and Wier Farm. Food available at The Pilot Inn at Sellars Bridge if Kempley Green. Bring a Picnic. wanted. "Time and tide waiteth for no rambler". Wed 26 Mar morning 4.8m L/M Dragon and Two Bottoms Wed 5 Mar morning 6m M Best foot forward (again) Patrick & Angela - 01452 616886 on day 07778 662951 Meet Karen - 01453 545824 on day 07721 605409 Meet 09:50 for 09:50 for 10:00 start from Cockleford, Green Dragon, near Cowley. 10:00 start from Coaley Church, please park considerately in GL53 9NW. Park in car park opposite pub. L163/E179 SO 968141 the village.http://tinyurl.com/mapCoaleyChurch L162/E167 http://tinyurl.com/mapCockleford Cowley Wood, Cally Hill, SO 771017 Silver Street, Far Green, Chestal, Upper Cam, Coberley. Lunch available at the pub to pre-order. Ashmead Green. If you sometimes use walking poles, today would be a good day to bring them. Several tricky stiles en route. Sat 29 Mar morning 5m H A Spring in your Step? Carol - 01453 825461 on day 07709 978238 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 Sat 8 Mar EITHER day 10m L/M The Ice Cream Walk start from Cam Peak CP (Peaked Down). L162/E167 ST 767993 No 3 Mike & Richard - 01453 873625 / 01453 http://tinyurl.com/mapCamPeakCP A short walk but a hilly one. 762373 on day 07749 282087 Meet at 09:20 for 09:30 at Cam Peak, Long Down, Uley Bury, Downham Hill. South Wraxall Village Hall CP, round corner from Church. Please park cars that are staying neatly nearest the road. £1 Mon 31 Mar morning 4m L/M Purton in Springtime donation per car for parking. L172/E156 ST 832647 Karen - 01453 545824 on day 07721 605409 Meet 10.20 for http://tinyurl.com/mapSouthWraxallVHCP Please leave 2 10:30 start from Purton CP (alongside canal, opposite church). spare car seats for shuttling to Castle Combe CP. L173/E156. L162/OL14 SO 692041 http://tinyurl.com/mapPurtonCP A walk ST 845777 http://tinyurl.com/mapCastleCombe. Our 80 mile at a gentle pace along the Severn Way to Sharpness. Return over linear walk from Winstones to WestonSM. From Castle Combe fields and a short stretch of minor road via Hinton. Gradual ascent via Ford, Slaughterford, Box, Blue Vein to South Wraxall. Picnic. and descent on the way back with lovely views.

Sat 8 Mar OR morning 5.5m M/H Whiteshill for a change, PLEASE NOTE (part 1 of 4) but not a lot Denys - 01453 751581 on day 07783 269574 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from Whiteshill Playing Field CP by RING the leader if you are in any doubt about taking part, village shop. Extra parking at end by Scout Hut/Kindergarten. especially if you haven’t walked recently. Perhaps try shorter E179/L162 SO 839070 http://tinyurl.com/mapWhiteshillCP walks first. Aniclockwise: Cotswold Way, Haresfield Beacon, Oxlynch, TERRAIN RATINGS Randwick. Snacks available at Village Shop. L - Level or little climbing. L/M - The odd hill. Wed 12 Mar morning 5.5m M/H Waterpoint M - Moderate climbing at times, but plenty of easier walking. Brian & Ann - 01452 770510 on day 07770 895035 Meet M/H - Moderate to Hilly with quite a lot of hills. 09:50 for 10:00 start from Oakridge, Butchers Arms. (Only use H - Hilly ups and downs for most of the time. the pub CP if you are going in for a drink or meal afterwards). STW = START THE WEEK WALKS are short (no more http://tinyurl.com/mapOakridgeButchersArms L162/E168 SO 915037 Oakridge, Waterlane, Battlescombe, Bournes than 4 miles), easy paced sociable Monday walks suitable Green, Oakridge. Lunch available afterwards at Butchers Arms. for:- 1/ Those who are new to Ramblers and wish to build up their confidence and fitness. 2/ Those who have been on Sat 15 Mar day 9m M/H If it's fine it's worth the climb Health Walks who want to move on to slightly longer walks. Jill - 01242 255994 on day 07815 786467 Meet 09:50 for 3/ Existing members for whom our normal walks programme 10:00 start from Uley, outside Old Crown. Park on road by Church. L162/E168 ST 791986 http://tinyurl.com/mapUley is becoming too strenuous. 4/ Anyone who wants an amble. Uley Bury, Cam Long Down, Dursley, Hermitage Wood, NON MEMBERS You are welcome to walk with the Group Coopers Wood, Stouts Hill, Owlpen. Two steep climbs. Picnic. three times. We hope you will then wish to join, either on- line at www.ramblers.org.uk or with a leaflet, quoting GR03 if Mon 17 Mar morning 4m M Around Cam Gentle STW walk Linda & Sophia - 01453 549358 / 01453 860287 Meet 10.20 you wish to be in our particular Group. Once a Member you for 10:30 start from Cam, Tesco CP. Please enter your car reg. can walk with any group in Britain. Newly joined members no. at customer service desk on arrival. L162/E167 SO 750004 please email Mike ([email protected]) or http://tinyurl.com/mapCamCP A gentle walk around Cam. ring 01453 873625 for new member information. South Cotswold Ramblers Our Walks - April 2014

Wed 2 Apr morning 5m L Lakes, Canals and Rivers Mon 21 Apr morning 4m L Shipton Moyne gentle walk Kathy - 01453 860004 Meet 10.20 for 10:30 start from Frampton- Olivia - 01453 751716 Meet 10.20 for 10:30 start from Shipton on-Severn, small car park on left at far end of Green, at start of Moyne Cat and Custard Pot CP if staying for lunch or in village. turning to Sailing Club. If this is full park considerately by the L162/E168 ST 890895 http://tinyurl.com/mapShiptonMoyne Green. http://tinyurl.com/mapFramptonSmallCP L162/OL14 Starveall, Estcourt park. Pub lunch at end. SO 747075 Cross fields to River Frome then canal banks and field paths back. Terrain L fairly level. Gentle pace. Wed 23 Apr morning 5m L/M Seven Springs & Devils Chimney Enid - 01242 863283 on day 07570 789317 Sat 5 Apr long morning 6.5m L/M A bit of what you fancy Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from Seven Springs Public House. Patrick & Angela - 01452 616886 on day 07778 662951 Meet L163/E179 SO 966169 http://tinyurl.com/mapSevenSprings 09:50 for 10:00 start from New Fancy View, Forest of Dean. Take Cotswold Way, Charlton Kings Common, Hartley Wood. Pub A48 through Westbury.Turn R at Elton via Littledean and lunch available at end. Ruspidge to Speech House where you turn L for one and a half miles to New Fancy car park and picnic site on L. L162/OL14 SO Fri 25 Apr evening 3m M Rodborough Parish Council 626095 http://tinyurl.com/mapNewFancy Mallards Pike, Family Walk No 1 Richard & Diana - 01453 762373 on day Mosley Green, Oakenhill Wood, Parkend, Rullells' Bank. Picnic. 07973 860669 Meet 17:50 for 18:00 start from Rodborough Pavilion Car Park. Go up from Golden Cross A46 and straight Mon 7 Apr morning 3.5 m L/M Short Gentle Walk from across Rodborough Hill into Butterow West. L162/E168 SO Tunnel House Inn Jacqui P - 01666 826139 Meet 10.20 847044 http://tinyurl.com/mapRodboroughPavilion Family for 10:30 start from Tunnel House Inn, Coates (turning off Coates walk around Rodborough Common, if possible bring grand- to Tarlton road). http://tinyurl.com/mapTunnelHouse children, nieces, nephews, sons, daughters. anyone in fact! E168/L163 SO 965005 Hailey Wood, Tarlton, Macmillan Way. Refreshments at Tunnel House after walk if required. Sat 26 Apr EITHER day 8.5m L/M The Ice Cream Walk No 4 Mike & Richard - 01453 873625 / 01453 Wed 9 Apr morning 8.5m M/H Ozleworth Park and Tresham 762373 on day 07749 282087 Meet at 09:20 for 09:30 at Richard P - 01454 260397 on day 07984 853775 Meet 09:50 for Monkton Combe church. Park in CP or if full on road. 10:00 start from Newark Park NT Car Park (free). L162/E167 ST L172/E155 ST 772620 http://tinyurl.com/mapMonktonCombe 782931 http://tinyurl.com/mapNewarkPark Newark Park, Please leave 2 spare car seats for shuttling to South Wraxall VH Ozleworth Park, Holwell Farm, Tresham, Newmills Farm, CP. Please park cars neatly nearest the road. £1 donation per car Alderley, return on Cotswold Way. Bring a picnic. House open for parking. http://tinyurl.com/mapSouthWraxallVHCP afterwards for NT members. Light refreshments available. L172/E156 ST 832647. Our 80 mile linear walk from Winstones to WestonSM continues. Today's section is from South Wraxall Sat 12 Apr long morning 6.5m M/H Hill and via Bradford on Avon, with time to see the Saxon Church, Tythe Stinchcombe Karen & Tony - 01453 545824 on day Barn, Dundas Aqueduct (Macmillan Way, Kennet and Avon 07721 605409 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from Stinchcombe Canal & Limestone Link) to Monkton Combe. Bring a picnic. Hill Public Car Park (not Golf Course CP). L162/E167 ST 743983 http://tinyurl.com/mapStinchcombeHillCP Round the top of Sat 26 Apr OR morning 5.5m L/M Mills of Wotton Stinchcombe Hill, Fortune Farm, Stinchcombe. Quite a hilly walk which includes one very steep ascent which is muddy and Anne E - 01453 842551 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from slippery after rain. Wotton-under-Edge, Auction Rooms CP. Go up Tabernacle Pitch and just past the graveyard turn right. You will see two drives, so Wed 16 Apr morning 6m M Hills above Weighbridge Inn take the left narrower one to emerge into a large CP. L162/E167 Jacqui P - 01666 826139 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from ST 75559350 http://tinyurl.com/mapWottonAuctionCP Fields Weighbridge Inn car park on Nailsworth to Avening road. to Wortley and Kingswood passing eight mills. Plenty of choice E168/L162 ST 862993 http://tinyurl.com/mapWeighbridgeInn for refreshments in Wotton at end of walk. Hilly walk with lovely views towards Gatcombe. Shipton's Grave Lane, Longman's Barn Farm, Hazel Wood. Lunch at Weighbridge Wed 30 Apr morning 5.5m M From the Heart, may we return to the Heart Denys - 01453 751581 on day 07783 269574 Inn after walk if required. Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from Nettleton, Golden Heart, on A417 1m SE of Birdlip. Park at top end of CP. E179/L163 SO 943137 Sat 19 Apr short day 8m M/H Monumental walk http://tinyurl.com/mapNettleton To Brimpsfield and beyond. David & Maurice - 01453 547580 / 01453 811162 / on day Excellent and varied food available at pub. Please order your 07891 918275 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from Stinchcombe Hill meal in the pub before setting off. Ask for Danny. Public Car Park (not Golf Course CP). L162/E167 ST 743983 http://tinyurl.com/mapStinchcombeHillCP Breakheart Quarry, PLEASE NOTE (part 2 of 4) Waterley Bottom, , Cotswold Way and Nibley Monument. Bring a picnic. WHAT TO BRING Bananas are popular as a snack, and bring plenty ======of water, to avoid dehydration. On day walks you are advised to bring Leaders’ Offers of Walks for July to October food supplies, even if planning a pub lunch, in case the pub is closed. Wear strong footwear. Bring waterproofs and/or warmer clothing. It Please get in touch with: John G (Saturdays) 01453 873625, Enid is advisable to bring a simple first aid kit. Remove muddy boots in (Midweek) 01242 863283, Anne E (STW Start the week) 01453 pubs/churches. 842551 & Mike (evenings) 01453 873625. Date offers needed by 30 DOGS - Sorry, registered assistance dogs only. April and walk details by 20 May. Thank you. ======PLEASE Do not walk ahead of the leader unless asked. South Cotswold Ramblers Our Walks - May 2014

Thu 1 May evening 4m M Evening views over the vale Sat 17 May day 8.5m L/M Tetbury and Westonbirt Mike & Heather - 01453 873625 on day 07749 282087 Meet Peter and Susan - 01453 860797 on day 07854 634090 Meet 17:50 for 18:00 start from top of village on B4066. Park 09:50 for 10:00 start from Tetbury old station CP (free). neatly on verge near Cattle Grid. L162/E168 SO 833036 http://tinyurl.com/mapTetburyOldStation L162/E168 ST http://tinyurl.com/mapSelsleyCattleGrid Evening walk up over 893933 Estcourt Park, Westonbirt and Monarch's Way, Picnic. the Common, Middleyard, Ebley meadows, Selsley village. Views if fine. Food/drink possible at refurbished Bell at Selsley. Mon 19 May morning 4m L/M A flat(ish), gentle walk from Nailsworth Ann A - 01453 839089 on day 07931 114439 Sat 3 May morning 6m M The American tree walk Meet 10.20 for 10:30 start from Nailsworth, Egypt Mill CP, far Graham B - 01452 725405 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from side. http://tinyurl.com/mapNailsworthEgyptMill L162/E168 Cranham, Black Horse pub car park. L163/E179 SO 896129 ST 850998 Cycle track to Bird's Crossing, back through fields http://tinyurl.com/mapCranhamBlackHorse Cranham and lanes of S Woodchester. One significant climb taken slowly Common, Sheepscombe, Wysis Way. Pub lunch available. and two shorter climbs. Good menu at Egypt Mill bistro after.

Mon 5 May morning 3.5m L wildlife Wed 21 May morning 6m L Road, rail and sea walk (we hope) Kathy - 01453 860004 Meet 10.20 for 10:30 Maurice - 01453 811162 on day 07912 552075 Meet 09:50 for start from Neigh Bridge Country Park Car Park. L173/E169 SU 10:00 start from Brookend (near Berkeley) Lammastide Inn. 017946 http://tinyurl.com/mapNeighBridgeCP A gentle walk Post code GL13 9SF. Use car park if going in after walk. beside lakes and rivers and through nature reserves. Binoculars L167/OL14 S0 684020 http://tinyurl.com/mapBrookend handy if you have them. Purton, Canal, Sharpness. Pub lunch available after.

Wed 7 May morning 5.25m M/H The walk that's got it all Fri 23 May evening 3m M Rodborough Parish Council Ann A - 01453 839089 on day 07931 114439 Meet 09:50 for Family Walk No 2 Richard & Diana - 01453 762373 on 10:00 start from Stroud British Oak Pub, corner of Butterow Hill day 07973 860669 Meet 17:50 for 18:00 start from Rodborough and London Road. Use pub car park if going in after walk, Pavilion Car Park. Go up from Golden Cross A46 and straight otherwise try Bowbridge Lane or Park Road opposite. L162/E168 across Rodborough Hill into Butterow West. L162/E168 SO SO 857043 http://tinyurl.com/mapStroudBritOak Along the 847044 http://tinyurl.com/mapRodboroughPavilion Family canal towards Brimbscombe, fields and woods up to common, walk Butterow, once again bring sons, daughters, grand- back through fields to Wallbridge and along river and canal to children, nieces, nephews, anyone in fact! pub. Food available at British Oak after walk.

Sat 24 May morning 6m M/H Puttin' on the Style Thu 8 May evening 4m M The walk we didn't do last Brian & Ann - 01452 770510 on day 07770 895035 Meet year when we ran out of daylight! Sally & Keith - 01453 09:50 for 10:00 start from Miserden, Carpenters Arms. If CP full 872729 on day 07818 425088 Meet 17:50 for 18:00 start from park considerately in road. L163/E179 SO 937088 Frampton Mansell, park in the overflow car park at the rear http://tinyurl.com/mapMiserdenCArms Miserden, of the Crown Inn.http://tinyurl.com/mapFramptonMansCrown Duntisbourne Abbots, Winstone, Miserden. Lunch possible after. L163/E168 SO 923027 Cowcombe Hill, Chalford Valley, canal. Food available at the Crown afterwards (pre-order at 17:50). Wed 28 May morning 5m M Toadsmoor Valley Bernard - 01453 884013 on day 07816 834828 Meet 09:50 for Sat 10 May long morning 6.5m M/H Gatcombe Glimpses 10:00 start from Bisley, Windyridge layby on Birdlip road. Brian & Sheelagh - 01453 872220 on day 07761 039595 Meet http://tinyurl.com/mapBisleyWindyridgeL163/E179 SO 09:20 for 09:30 start from Old Lodge 903064 Bisley, Nashend. Pubs in Bisley at end of walk. Inn. Find Tom Long's Post in middle of common, turn south towards Nailsworth and pub is along track on the right. Park on nearby common. http://tinyurl.com/mapMinchComOldLodge Thu 29 May evening 4.5m M/H Back to my roots L162/E168 SO 853008 Watledge, Nailsworth, Over-Avening, Brian & Ann - 01452 770510 on day 07770 895035 Meet 17:50 Longford's Mill, Box. About 1,000 feet of easy ascent/descent. for 18:00 start from Bisley, The Bear CP or street parking nearby. Lunch available at Old Lodge Inn. http://tinyurl.com/mapBisleyBearCP L163/E179 SO 903060 Bisley, Scrubs, Piedmont, Calfway, Bisley. Food possible after at Wed 14 May morning 6.7m L/M Nympsfield and The Bear Inn. Woodchester Park Peter and Susan - 01453 860797 on day 07854 634090 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from Sat 31 May day 11.5m M/H Round and round Bredon Hill Nympsfield, meet by Rose and Crown Pub after parking Graham W - 01453 885408 on day 07977 863592 Meet 09:50 considerately in the village. http://tinyurl.com/mapNympsfield for 10:00 start from Beckford at Church. L162/E168 SO 975357 L162/E167 SO 800005 Nympsfield, Woodchester Park. Windsor http://tinyurl.com/mapBeckford Banbury Stone Tower, Edge and back via Partstreet Farm. Pub Lunch possible at end. Bredon's Norton, Bredon, Westmancote, Kemerton, Overbury. Thu 15 May evening 4m L Round Shurdington Bring a packed lunch. Enid - 01242 863283 on day 07570 789317 Meet 17:50 for 18:00 start from The Bell, Shurdington. Only use pub car park if PLEASE NOTE (part 3 of 4) eating there later. If not, park in Church Lane. L163/E179 SO MESSAGES on our website will show any changes or additional 923187 http://tinyurl.com/mapShurdingtonBellPH Over fields information about any walk to Chargrove Lane, Brizen Fields, Shurdington. Pub meal at end www.southcotswoldramblers.org.uk/messages if required. PLEASE don't walk ahead of the leader unless asked. South Cotswold Ramblers Our Walks - June 2014

Mon 2 Jun morning 3.5m L Gentle Walk in Berkeley Vale Wed 18 Jun long morning 7.5m L/M Pylons above, tunnel Ray C - 01453 811545 Meet 10.20 for 10:30 start from below, at Tormarton Ros & Sally - 01285 655521 / 01453 Laburnum Cottage, Brookend, Berkeley GL13 9SF. Car parking 872729 on day 07818 425088 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from is in my garden at the rear of the house. L162/E167 SO 685020 Tormarton, park considerately in street near church. L172/E155 http://tinyurl.com/mapBrookendLabCot The actual route will ST 768789 http://tinyurl.com/mapTormartonCh Dodington, be dependent upon the weather and the flora and fauna. There Old Sodbury, Lyegrove. Beautiful views, generally level but with will be some stiles on route. The Lammastide Inn across the a couple of climbs. Bring a snack. Pubs in Tormarton after. road does provide lunchtime food if required afterwards. Thu 19 Jun evening 4.25m M/H Another walk from Wed 4 Jun morning 6.2m M Guiting Power to the People Nailsworth Ann A - 01453 839089 on day 07931 114439 Ros & Ron - 01285 239054 on day 07917 808234 Meet 09:50 Meet 17:50 for 18:00 start from Nailsworth, Egypt Mill CP, far for 10:00 start from Guiting Power, meet by memorial in centre. side. http://tinyurl.com/mapNailsworthEgyptMill L162/E168 Parking at The Farmers Arms if eating afterwards. Alternative ST 850998 Short section of cycle track, up to Forest Green and parking in village hall carpark. L163/EOL45 SP 094247 down to the Miry Brook through the woods, back through http://tinyurl.com/mapGuitingPower From Guiting Power to Newmarket. Bistro at Egypt Mill after walk if required. Naunton, two quintessential Cotswold villages. Passing Adam Henson's rare breeds Cotswold Farm Park on route. Pub meals Sat 21 Jun day 9m M/H Over the Dover available at the Farmers Arms. Jill - 01242 255994 on day 07815 786467 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from Chipping Campden Market Hall. Street parking Sat 7 Jun day 10m L Day Walk in Berkeley Vale is available including along the High Street, Church Street Ray C - 01453 811545 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from Laburnum and Calf Lane. http://tinyurl.com/mapChippingCampden Cottage, Brookend, Berkeley GL13 9SF. Car parking is in my OL45/L151 SP 151391 Dover's Hill, Broadway Tower, Broadway, garden at the rear of the house. L162/E167 SO 685020 Farncombe Estate, Buckle Street, Dover's Hill. Bring a picnic, tea http://tinyurl.com/mapBrookendLabCot The proposed walk shops in Chipping Campden after walk. will be flora and fauna dependent. Bring refreshments and food for a coffee and lunch break. Wed 25 Jun day 12m L/M A day in the South Olivia - 01453 751716 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from Avening Wed 11 Jun morning 6m L Canal Resurrection Social club car park, with kind permission. L162/E168 ST Tim - 01453 757104 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from Cainscross 879981 http://tinyurl.com/mapAveningSocialClub Culkerton, Car Park (top end) opposite Tricorn House. L162/E168 SO Rodmarton, Cherington. Bring a packed lunch. 834051 http://tinyurl.com/mapCainscross Hilly Orchard, Wallbridge, Bowbridge, Fromebank, old railway. Route might Fri 27 Jun evening 5m M Rodborough Parish vary due to reconstruction. Mainly level with one slope. Council Walk Richard & Diana - 01453 762373 on day 07973 860669 Meet 17:50 for 18:00 start from Rodborough Thu 12 Jun evening 4m M Hardwicke and Elmore Pavilion Car Park. Go up from Golden Cross A46 and straight evening walk John G - 01453 873625 Meet 17:50 for 18:00 across Rodborough Hill into Butterow West. L162/E168 SO start from Hardwicke, Pilot Inn CP near Sellars Bridge. 847044 http://tinyurl.com/mapRodboroughPavilion Manor L162/E179 SO 782040 http://tinyurl.com/mapHardwickePilot Woods to the folly and back across the Common. Evening walk over the canal from Hardwicke to Elmore and Sat 28 Jun day 10m M/H Chavenage to Kingscote walk Hockley Hill. Pub food/drink possible at end. John G - 01453 873625 Meet 09:50 for 10:00 start from Sat 14 Jun EITHER morning 5m L Arlingham – Chavenage Green.http://tinyurl.com/mapChavenageGreen Salmon Walk Steve & Rosemary - 01453 860130 Meet L162/E168 ST 865957 Babdown, Lasborough, Kingscote (Pub 09:50 for 10:00 start from Arlingham, Red Lion. Park carefully on Lunch if required), Hazelcote, Tiltups End, Ledgemore Bottom. road nearby.http://tinyurl.com/mapArlingham L162/OL14 SO Mon 30 Jun morning 4m L/M A pleasant easy paced 708109 Old Passage, Severn Way. Possible pub meal at end. Thornbury walk Anne E - 01453 842551 Meet 10.20 for 10:30 start from Thornbury Long Stay CP off High Street OR Sat 14 Jun day 10.5m L/M The Ice Cream Walk near pedestrian crossing.http://tinyurl.com/mapThornburyCP No 5 Mike & Richard - 01453 873625 / 01453 762373 L162/E167 ST 635901 Mumbley's Plat, Jubilee Way. Meals on day 07749 282087 Meet at 09:20 for 09:30 at Hallatrow available at end of walk. (part of High Littleton) parking area on R of B3355 just before it meets A39. http://tinyurl.com/mapHallatrow PLEASE NOTE (part 4 of 4) L172/E142 ST 638571 Please leave 2 spare car seats for IMPORTANT - KEEPING TOGETHER ON A WALK Most parties will shuttling to CP near Monkton Combe church. L172/E155 ST have a back marker appointed for the walk. Please inform this person 772620 http://tinyurl.com/mapMonktonCombe. Our 80 mile if you need to drop behind for a comfort stop, and tell them when you linear walk from Winstones to WestonSM continues. Today's catch up again. All members of larger parties are asked to help by section is from Monkton Combe via Midford, Combe Hay, keeping a look out behind them. Dunkerton, Radford (Limestone Link) to Hallatrow. Picnic. ADVERSE CONDITIONS Leaders may decide to cancel or shorten Mon 16 Jun morning 4m L River and famland Gentle Walk the walk, taking into account everyone's health and safety. Please Maurice - 01453 811162 on day 07912 552075 Meet 10.20 for contact them if doubt before travelling. 10:30 start from Sharpness picnic area CP. B4066 to Docks THE RAMBLERS ASSOCIATION is a registered charity (England & Wales no 1093577, Scotland entrance. At mini roundabout turn left, then signed on right. SC039799) and a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales (no 4458492) Registered office http://tinyurl.com/mapSharpnessPicnicArea L162/E167 OL14 2nd floor, Camelford House, 87-90 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TW. ALL LEISURE ACTIVITIES have inherent hazards associated with them including rambling. In spite of participants’ ST 668020 Severn bank, field and lane to Newtown. Bring a safety always being the paramount concern, accidents will occasionally occur. It is important that each picnic for after the walk. person appreciates their responsibility to identify hazards and take all reasonable steps to eliminate or minimise the potential for accidents.