THE RAMBLERS/media/LBS/Area And Group Pages... · 2017. 12. 8. · Annual General Meeting Saturday 15th February 2014 The 45th Annual General Meeting of the Devon Area of the Ramblers’

45th ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTSFOR THE YEAR ENDING 30th September, 2013

The Ramblers’ Association is a registered charity (England & Wales no 1093577, Scotland no SC039799) and a company limited by guarantee, registered in England & Wales (no 4458492). Registered office: 2nd floor, Camelford House, 87-90 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TW

Devon Area Chairman, Robert Woolcott addresses Ramblers at the Meldon Rally

THERAMBLERSDEVON AREAwww.devonramblers.org.uk

THE RAMBLERS

DEVON AREA www.devonramblers.org

45th ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDING 30th SEPTEMBER, 2013

The Ramblers’ Association is a registered charity (England & Wales no. 1093577, Scot-land no. SCO39799) and a company limited by guarantee, registered in England & Wales (no. 4458492). Registered office: 2nd Floor, Camelford House, 87-90 Albert Embank-ment, London SE1 7TW

Devon Area Chairman Robert Woolcott addresses Ramblers at the Meldon rally

Annual General Meeting Saturday 15th February 2014

The 45th Annual General Meeting of the Devon Area of the Ramblers’ Association will be held at Filleigh Village Hall, Filleigh, Nr Barnstaple on Saturday 15th February 2014 at 2.00pm, to be followed by our speaker, Simon Barnett

ALL MEMBERS ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND

Agenda 1. Welcome to our guest speaker, Simon Barnett2. Apologies for Absence3. Minutes of Annual General Meeting at Phoenix Hall, Bovey Tracey on Saturday

23rd February 20134. Business arising from the Minutes5. To receive and adopt the Hon. Chairman’s Report6. To receive and adopt the Hon. Vice-Chairman’s Report7. To receive and adopt the Hon. Secretary’s Report8. To receive and adopt the Hon. Treasurer’s Report9. To receive and adopt the Hon. Membership Secretary’s Report10. To receive and adopt the Hon. Footpath Secretary’s Report11. To receive and adopt the Hon. Countryside Secretary’s Report12. To receive and adopt the Hon. Publicity Secretary’s Report13. To receive and adopt the Hon. Access Officer’s Report14. To receive and adopt the Hon. Web Master’s Report15. To receive and adopt the Hon. Area News Editor’s Report16. To discuss any possible motions17. Election of Officers and of individual Members of Area Council:

(h) Hon. Footpath Secretary (i) Hon. Countryside Secretary (j) Hon. Access Officer (k) Hon. Publicity Officer(s) (l) Hon. Area News Editor (m) Hon. Web Master

(a) Vice Presidents*(b) Hon. Chairman(c) Hon. Vice Chairman(d) Hon. Secretary(e) Hon. Treasurer(f) Hon. Assistant Treasurer(g) Hon. Membership Secretary (n) Twelve Individual Council Members

18. Appoint/Confirm Independent Examiner and Minutes Secretary19. Appoint/Confirm Delegates to General Council20. Appoint representatives to outside bodies21. Dates and venues of Area Council Meetings 2014/1522. Any Other Business23. Our guest speaker, Simon Barnett.

* Vice Presidents are elected for life; this item relates to any new nominations.

It is requested that the Secretary or Chairman receives any Motions in writing at least 21 days before the AGM.

Arrangements for the day 10.00 Coffee

10.30 -12.30 A choice of walks starting from the village hall, exploring the Castle Hill Estate, home of Lady Arran. If possible can those doing the longer walk (4.5 miles) bring a torch as we will be walking through a (disused) railway tunnel.

13.00 -14.00 Lunch

14.00 -15.30 AGM

15.30 -16.00 Guest speaker—Simon Barnett, Ramblers’ Director of Delivery and Development who will provide an update on the renewable energy debate.

16.00 - 16.30 Afternoon tea or coffee, cake & biscuits

Lunch Arrangements Menu Home-made soups Selection of sandwiches & savoury pastries Cakes Tea or coffee

Costs and Payment The cost of lunch will be £7. Orders for lunch with payment, to: Mrs Linda Lee, 9 Grange Avenue, Sticklepath, Barnstaple EX31 2DS. Cheques payable to Ramblers—North Devon Group.

Directions for travel The village hall website is: www.filleighvillagehall.org.uk. Most guests will approach from the south along the A361. Turn left onto the B3225 at the Aller Cross roundabout, then after about 1/4 mile turn right, signed for Filleigh 2 1/2m. The village hall is signed to the left, just before the school. It has a large car park. Postcode: EX32 0RS. Grid Reference: SS666279.

It is also possible to travel by train from Exeter to Barnstaple then take bus No.155

Annual General Meeting Saturday 15th February 2014

The 45th Annual General Meeting of the Devon Area of the Ramblers’ Association will be held at Filleigh Village Hall, Filleigh, Nr Barnstaple on Saturday 15th February 2014 at 2.00pm, to be followed by our speaker, Simon Barnett

ALL MEMBERS ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND

Agenda 1. Welcome to our guest speaker, Simon Barnett2. Apologies for Absence3. Minutes of Annual General Meeting at Phoenix Hall, Bovey Tracey on Saturday

23rd February 20134. Business arising from the Minutes5. To receive and adopt the Hon. Chairman’s Report6. To receive and adopt the Hon. Vice-Chairman’s Report7. To receive and adopt the Hon. Secretary’s Report8. To receive and adopt the Hon. Treasurer’s Report9. To receive and adopt the Hon. Membership Secretary’s Report10. To receive and adopt the Hon. Footpath Secretary’s Report11. To receive and adopt the Hon. Countryside Secretary’s Report12. To receive and adopt the Hon. Publicity Secretary’s Report13. To receive and adopt the Hon. Access Officer’s Report14. To receive and adopt the Hon. Web Master’s Report15. To receive and adopt the Hon. Area News Editor’s Report16. To discuss any possible motions17. Election of Officers and of individual Members of Area Council:

(h) Hon. Footpath Secretary (i) Hon. Countryside Secretary (j) Hon. Access Officer (k) Hon. Publicity Officer(s) (l) Hon. Area News Editor (m) Hon. Web Master

(a) Vice Presidents*(b) Hon. Chairman(c) Hon. Vice Chairman(d) Hon. Secretary(e) Hon. Treasurer(f) Hon. Assistant Treasurer(g) Hon. Membership Secretary (n) Twelve Individual Council Members

18. Appoint/Confirm Independent Examiner and Minutes Secretary19. Appoint/Confirm Delegates to General Council20. Appoint representatives to outside bodies21. Dates and venues of Area Council Meetings 2014/1522. Any Other Business23. Our guest speaker, Simon Barnett.

* Vice Presidents are elected for life; this item relates to any new nominations.

It is requested that the Secretary or Chairman receives any Motions in writing at least 21 days before the AGM.

45th Annual Report & Accounts 3

Officers and Council Members 2013/14

The Constitution for Devon area requires that the Officers of the Area and up to twelve individual members be elected at the Annual General Meeting.

The Secretary hereby requests that nominations for Vice Presidents, Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Membership Secretary, Footpath Secretary, Access Officer, Countryside Secretary, Publicity Officer, News Editor, Web Master and up to Twelve Individual Members duly proposed and seconded be received in time for their election.

The management and control of the Area is vested in Area Council which comprises the Officers listed above, the Individual Members and two representatives from each Group and one from each Affiliated Society.

2013/2014 Officers and Council Members

Vice Presidents Joyce Stanley Don Millgate

Hon. Chairman Robert Woolcott Hon. Vice Chairman John Howell Hon. Secretary David Hinchliffe Hon. Treasurer George Coles Hon. Assistant Treasurer James Baldwin Hon. Membership Secretary John Minshall Hon. Footpath Secretary Jenny Worsfold Hon. Access Officer John Skinner Hon. Countryside Secretary Eileen Linfoot Hon. Publicity Officer Eileen Linfoot Hon. Area News Editor Nick Savage Hon. Web Master Mike Long

Individual Members Rosemary Kimbell, Joan Long, Ted Swan, Barbara Graham, Sharon Hamilton, Val Rose, Mike Soper

Groups Devon Bootlegs, East Devon, Exeter & District, Moorland, North Devon, Plymouth & District, South Devon, South Hams, Tavistock, Teignmouth & Dawlish, Tiverton, Totnes

Affiliated Clubs Dartmoor Rambling Club, Exeter Rambling Club, Ipplepen Rambling Club, Ivybridge Walking Club, Moorspirits Ramblers, Newton Abbot & District Ramblers, Plym Ramblers, Southernhay Walking Group, Torbay Rambling Club, The Torridge Ramblers, Two Moors Way Association.

Chairman’s Report At this year’s AGM in February, the meeting agreed we should organise a Rally with the directive that we have some progress to open up the Southdown permissive path at Meldon. Consequently a Rally was organised and took place at Meldon Reservoir in August. The Rally was a success and was attended by 122 members of Devon Area. The reason why the path is closed was explained. A positive statement from the landowner Phil Heard and Family was read out and appreciated by the gathering. John Skinner and myself now have an appointment with Dartmoor National Park’s Chief Executive, Doctor Kevin Bishop when we will endeavour to use the oils of our efforts to lubricate a way forward from the stalemate that is

preventing the path to be opened. Without the Rally, the landowner’s positively worded statement would not exist. With it we can use it as a key to open the path. So, a good day out in lovely walking country and beautiful sunshine, plus better prospects of achieving an agreement to get the path opened. Thank you again to all those members who made the effort to attend.

Membership continues to fall. If we were able to publicise our activities with interesting photographs together with correctly worded press releases in the local media, I feel that it would be a way of attracting new members. The same can be said for local radio and television. Although newspapers, radio and television were contacted, the Rally failed to get any mention. Even our own magazine ‘WALK’ was not supportive of our event!

Another way of supporting our organisation is to ‘man the stand’. Area has a well designed table and banner system specifically for use as a promotional aid and it is very under used. Membership is linked to publicity. If our publicity machine is weak and not working this will greatly impair the attraction of new members into our organisation. Therefore I would like to see each of our twelve groups with their own publicity machine, working with Area and adjacent groups and regularly using their personal contacts to give their group’s press releases and photographs to the media etc., for information to interested parties. Some groups are doing their promotional work but some could do more. We need to ‘man the stand’ at more events. If you need help just ask Area. It would be brilliant if our membership total just remained the same for one year and it would be super brilliant if it increased by only 5 members. I feel that publicity is the answer to achieve this, and we should work on this in the coming year.

Devon Area Annual Report this year, has been produced in black and white, except for the full colour cover. The inner pages of text, photographs, maps etc., are in black ink on white paper as you can see. This is due to the additional cost of £294 for full colour throughout and the decision was voted in at Area Council in August. Should you disagree with this decision it can be reversed next year but needs your attendance at our Area Council on August 16th 2014 and of course your vote in favour of full colour. Full colour needed only four votes for approval. With promotional work in mind it would be a great advantage to include photographs showing beautiful views and projects such as path clearing. Also extreme conditions that attract attention to our activities. Save them during the year and send them to David Hinchliffe our Secretary for inclusion in the next Annual Report together with a short caption describing your photograph.

www.devonramblers.org.uk4

Officers and Council Members 2013/14

The Constitution for Devon area requires that the Officers of the Area and up to twelve individual members be elected at the Annual General Meeting.

The Secretary hereby requests that nominations for Vice Presidents, Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Membership Secretary, Footpath Secretary, Access Officer, Countryside Secretary, Publicity Officer, News Editor, Web Master and up to Twelve Individual Members duly proposed and seconded be received in time for their election.

The management and control of the Area is vested in Area Council which comprises the Officers listed above, the Individual Members and two representatives from each Group and one from each Affiliated Society.

2013/2014 Officers and Council Members

Vice Presidents Joyce Stanley Don Millgate

Hon. Chairman Robert Woolcott Hon. Vice Chairman John Howell Hon. Secretary David Hinchliffe Hon. Treasurer George Coles Hon. Assistant Treasurer James Baldwin Hon. Membership Secretary John Minshall Hon. Footpath Secretary Jenny Worsfold Hon. Access Officer John Skinner Hon. Countryside Secretary Eileen Linfoot Hon. Publicity Officer Eileen Linfoot Hon. Area News Editor Nick Savage Hon. Web Master Mike Long

Individual Members Rosemary Kimbell, Joan Long, Ted Swan, Barbara Graham, Sharon Hamilton, Val Rose, Mike Soper

Groups Devon Bootlegs, East Devon, Exeter & District, Moorland, North Devon, Plymouth & District, South Devon, South Hams, Tavistock, Teignmouth & Dawlish, Tiverton, Totnes

Affiliated Clubs Dartmoor Rambling Club, Exeter Rambling Club, Ipplepen Rambling Club, Ivybridge Walking Club, Moorspirits Ramblers, Newton Abbot & District Ramblers, Plym Ramblers, Southernhay Walking Group, Torbay Rambling Club, The Torridge Ramblers, Two Moors Way Association.

Chairman’s Report At this year’s AGM in February, the meeting agreed we should organise a Rally with the directive that we have some progress to open up the Southdown permissive path at Meldon. Consequently a Rally was organised and took place at Meldon Reservoir in August. The Rally was a success and was attended by 122 members of Devon Area. The reason why the path is closed was explained. A positive statement from the landowner Phil Heard and Family was read out and appreciated by the gathering. John Skinner and myself now have an appointment with Dartmoor National Park’s Chief Executive, Doctor Kevin Bishop when we will endeavour to use the oils of our efforts to lubricate a way forward from the stalemate that is

preventing the path to be opened. Without the Rally, the landowner’s positively worded statement would not exist. With it we can use it as a key to open the path. So, a good day out in lovely walking country and beautiful sunshine, plus better prospects of achieving an agreement to get the path opened. Thank you again to all those members who made the effort to attend.

Membership continues to fall. If we were able to publicise our activities with interesting photographs together with correctly worded press releases in the local media, I feel that it would be a way of attracting new members. The same can be said for local radio and television. Although newspapers, radio and television were contacted, the Rally failed to get any mention. Even our own magazine ‘WALK’ was not supportive of our event!

Another way of supporting our organisation is to ‘man the stand’. Area has a well designed table and banner system specifically for use as a promotional aid and it is very under used. Membership is linked to publicity. If our publicity machine is weak and not working this will greatly impair the attraction of new members into our organisation. Therefore I would like to see each of our twelve groups with their own publicity machine, working with Area and adjacent groups and regularly using their personal contacts to give their group’s press releases and photographs to the media etc., for information to interested parties. Some groups are doing their promotional work but some could do more. We need to ‘man the stand’ at more events. If you need help just ask Area. It would be brilliant if our membership total just remained the same for one year and it would be super brilliant if it increased by only 5 members. I feel that publicity is the answer to achieve this, and we should work on this in the coming year.

Devon Area Annual Report this year, has been produced in black and white, except for the full colour cover. The inner pages of text, photographs, maps etc., are in black ink on white paper as you can see. This is due to the additional cost of £294 for full colour throughout and the decision was voted in at Area Council in August. Should you disagree with this decision it can be reversed next year but needs your attendance at our Area Council on August 16th 2014 and of course your vote in favour of full colour. Full colour needed only four votes for approval. With promotional work in mind it would be a great advantage to include photographs showing beautiful views and projects such as path clearing. Also extreme conditions that attract attention to our activities. Save them during the year and send them to David Hinchliffe our Secretary for inclusion in the next Annual Report together with a short caption describing your photograph.


The electronic age is marvellous, not only can your photos be transmitted at the touch of a button, but they retain full colour when they are put onto the Devon Area Web Site Annual Report at no extra cost!

I wish to thank my Area Team for their support during the past year. Thank you also to those hardworking and dedicated members who run and manage our twelve walking groups. I wish you good health, superb walking and friendly companionship with your walking companions.

Robert Woolcott

Robert Woolcott and George Coles at an Active Dartmoor event.

Vice-Chairman’s Report The Ramblers are at the heart of walking and have achieved some important landmarks in recent years. In 2000, public access was achieved to over a million hectares of land in England and Wales. In 2003, it could be argued that Scotland became the most walker friendly country in Europe due to the extensive provisions of legislation allowing access to land. In 2009 we won the right to walk along the coast line of England and in 2012; it became possible to walk around Wales.

There is still a lot of work to be done on access to the coast as still over half of the coast line remains inaccessible to walkers. In the south west we are fortunate in having the best coastal provision for walkers, due in no small part to the South West Coast Path. This fact is even recognised by Richard Benyon, Environment Minister, who has enthused in Dorset, ‘of health, well-being, spiritual uplift and tourism spend’.

If you look at a map which reflects poverty in the UK you will see many of the poorest and most deprived areas in the UK are the coastal resorts; in this area Torbay is a prime example. Walkers should be seen as more than just walkers, some people say walkers bring problems with them, but they could provide a major economic boost in ailing seaside communities. The boost for coastal walking is probably indicated by a surprising piece of evidence, the increase in the sale of parking tickets. These walkers will spend money in local pubs, B&B’s, tea houses, garages etc. The 630 miles of the South West Coast Path, it is estimated by Path Officer Mark Owen, supports around 9,000 jobs and provides a £389m boost to the regional economy.

There is still work to do on opening up coastal access around the UK. It should not be forgotten that the Ramblers was founded as an organisation with a ‘cutting’ edge. Many members today just wish to walk and we should not forget the traditions of campaigning which are a major part of the Rambler’s roots. Local Councils face many financial pressures where footpath budgets are cut, paths will become difficult or impossible to use. It is important we work with and support these Council’s to keep paths open and to look at opening up more opportunities for urban and rural walkers.

There are threats to, for example, Dartmoor National Park, having the right grazing regime to support key habitats on the Moor and the need to have the correct stocking levels. There is the need for energy production, but we do need to take into account the special qualities of the region when looking at wind farm or solar array applications. The Ramblers strongly supports the need for a circular path around Meldon reservoir as there is a clearly evidenced need for the path. We need to ensure that the Dartmoor National Park works to achieve this aim as soon as possible.

The Ramblers does welcome your membership which is important to ensure the organisation is able to continue its campaigning work for the provision of improved urban and rural access for walkers. It is important that we should seek new members to ensure the sustainability of the organisation and to help it to continue with its campaigning objectives. From my personal perspective 2013, was a wonderful year for walking, let’s hope the next year is another fantastic year of walking, enjoying the benefits of the public rights of way network which the Rambler’s has campaigned for.

John Howell


The electronic age is marvellous, not only can your photos be transmitted at the touch of a button, but they retain full colour when they are put onto the Devon Area Web Site Annual Report at no extra cost! I wish to thank my Area Team for their support during the past year. Thank you also to those hardworking and dedicated members who run and manage our twelve walking groups. I wish you good health, superb walking and friendly companionship with your walking companions. Robert Woolcott Area Chairman


The electronic age is marvellous, not only can your photos be transmitted at the touch of a button, but they retain full colour when they are put onto the Devon Area Web Site Annual Report at no extra cost!

I wish to thank my Area Team for their support during the past year. Thank you also to those hardworking and dedicated members who run and manage our twelve walking groups. I wish you good health, superb walking and friendly companionship with your walking companions.

Robert Woolcott


Vice-Chairman’s Report The Ramblers are at the heart of walking and have achieved some important landmarks in recent years. In 2000, public access was achieved to over a million hectares of land in England and Wales. In 2003, it could be argued that Scotland became the most walker friendly country in Europe due to the extensive provisions of legislation allowing access to land. In 2009 we won the right to walk along the coast line of England and in 2012; it became possible to walk around Wales.

There is still a lot of work to be done on access to the coast as still over half of the coast line remains inaccessible to walkers. In the south west we are fortunate in having the best coastal provision for walkers, due in no small part to the South West Coast Path. This fact is even recognised by Richard Benyon, Environment Minister, who has enthused in Dorset, ‘of health, well-being, spiritual uplift and tourism spend’.

If you look at a map which reflects poverty in the UK you will see many of the poorest and most deprived areas in the UK are the coastal resorts; in this area Torbay is a prime example. Walkers should be seen as more than just walkers, some people say walkers bring problems with them, but they could provide a major economic boost in ailing seaside communities. The boost for coastal walking is probably indicated by a surprising piece of evidence, the increase in the sale of parking tickets. These walkers will spend money in local pubs, B&B’s, tea houses, garages etc. The 630 miles of the South West Coast Path, it is estimated by Path Officer Mark Owen, supports around 9,000 jobs and provides a £389m boost to the regional economy.

There is still work to do on opening up coastal access around the UK. It should not be forgotten that the Ramblers was founded as an organisation with a ‘cutting’ edge. Many members today just wish to walk and we should not forget the traditions of campaigning which are a major part of the Rambler’s roots. Local Councils face many financial pressures where footpath budgets are cut, paths will become difficult or impossible to use. It is important we work with and support these Council’s to keep paths open and to look at opening up more opportunities for urban and rural walkers.

There are threats to, for example, Dartmoor National Park, having the right grazing regime to support key habitats on the Moor and the need to have the correct stocking levels. There is the need for energy production, but we do need to take into account the special qualities of the region when looking at wind farm or solar array applications. The Ramblers strongly supports the need for a circular path around Meldon reservoir as there is a clearly evidenced need for the path. We need to ensure that the Dartmoor National Park works to achieve this aim as soon as possible.

The Ramblers does welcome your membership which is important to ensure the organisation is able to continue its campaigning work for the provision of improved urban and rural access for walkers. It is important that we should seek new members to ensure the sustainability of the organisation and to help it to continue with its campaigning objectives. From my personal perspective 2013, was a wonderful year for walking, let’s hope the next year is another fantastic year of walking, enjoying the benefits of the public rights of way network which the Rambler’s has campaigned for.

John Howell


Secretary’s Report At our last AGM a new Area Constitution was approved. We said goodbye to the Executive Committee, all business now being conducted by Area Council. This has reduced the amount of paperwork and meetings to be attended, especially by Area officers. Hopefully our Groups will feel closer to the decision-making process too.

At local level we have been watching changes taking place at national level too. I was nominated to attend General Council at the University of Warwick earlier this year. There was an awful lot packed into a short space of timing, but I came away with the distinct impression that our new Chairman and Chief Executive recognise the issues that

beset us and are prepared to grapple with them. They certainly need to do so. Over the last 3 years national membership has fallen by 12% and we have not done much better in Devon with a 9% decline.

Congratulations to Totnes Group for introducing their new website. Moorland Group have reported that as a result of their website, launched last year, they have found new members and increased interest. The upcoming generations of members expect to have information readily available to them over the internet, and I look forward to the day when all our groups are online.

Reduced membership means reduced income means reduced services, and a vicious downwards spiral then begins. Radical measures are needed, but this is difficult to achieve without scaring off existing members. I believe that the proposal to try to recruit more volunteers (activists, if you like) has much merit. We need to be ready to give enthusiastic support to those measures when they are published. This is not to underestimate the difficulties, not least in achieving good, positive publicity in the local media. It was disappointing that our Meldon rally did not hit the headlines after all the hard work that went into arranging it.

I look forward to another stimulating year.

David Hinchliffe

Treasurer’s Report Devon Area has enjoyed another routine year so there is no need for a long report. Early this year I was selected for the Volunteer Sounding Board (VSB) run by Central Office. I have been attending meetings to discuss all the issues for volunteers such as how do we recruit? how do we train and manage? how do we reward or say thanks? And do all volunteers have to be members of Ramblers?

Through this I have become aware of the many initiatives for change and improvement started by Jonathan Kipling Chair of Trustees and

Benedict Southworth Chief Executive. These amount to an enormous step forward which I welcome whole heartedly, though with a note of caution because introducing the changes will be such a large task for Ramblers.

Area There was a deficit of £1,196 this year as shown in the accounts. This is in line with planned budget and is intended to reduce the balance of cash held by Devon Area required by Central Office Guidelines.

Groups At the time of writing Groups are busy filing their Annual Returns. The Budgets have been submitted for 2013/14 and show great restraint in Group spending. Area has submitted an increase as last year was a special case. We await the approval of budgets by Central Office.

Thanks My thanks are due to Group Treasurers and to James Baldwin for all their work and help. In addition I would like to propose a vote of thanks to Stephanie Ackland for once again performing the Audit.

My Successor It is with some regret that I will leave my role at the AGM. However, after four years in the role I believe that it is right to move aside so that new blood can bring new ideas. James Baldwin has volunteered and if elected will bring skills including a willingness to question the status quo.

George Coles


Secretary’s Report At our last AGM a new Area Constitution was approved. We said goodbye to the Executive Committee, all business now being conducted by Area Council. This has reduced the amount of paperwork and meetings to be attended, especially by Area officers. Hopefully our Groups will feel closer to the decision-making process too.

At local level we have been watching changes taking place at national level too. I was nominated to attend General Council at the University of Warwick earlier this year. There was an awful lot packed into a short space of timing, but I came away with the distinct impression that our new Chairman and Chief Executive recognise the issues that

beset us and are prepared to grapple with them. They certainly need to do so. Over the last 3 years national membership has fallen by 12% and we have not done much better in Devon with a 9% decline.

Congratulations to Totnes Group for introducing their new website. Moorland Group have reported that as a result of their website, launched last year, they have found new members and increased interest. The upcoming generations of members expect to have information readily available to them over the internet, and I look forward to the day when all our groups are online.

Reduced membership means reduced income means reduced services, and a vicious downwards spiral then begins. Radical measures are needed, but this is difficult to achieve without scaring off existing members. I believe that the proposal to try to recruit more volunteers (activists, if you like) has much merit. We need to be ready to give enthusiastic support to those measures when they are published. This is not to underestimate the difficulties, not least in achieving good, positive publicity in the local media. It was disappointing that our Meldon rally did not hit the headlines after all the hard work that went into arranging it.

I look forward to another stimulating year.

David Hinchliffe

Treasurer’s Report Devon Area has enjoyed another routine year so there is no need for a long report. Early this year I was selected for the Volunteer Sounding Board (VSB) run by Central Office. I have been attending meetings to discuss all the issues for volunteers such as how do we recruit? how do we train and manage? how do we reward or say thanks? And do all volunteers have to be members of Ramblers?

Through this I have become aware of the many initiatives for change and improvement started by Jonathan Kipling Chair of Trustees and

Benedict Southworth Chief Executive. These amount to an enormous step forward which I welcome whole heartedly, though with a note of caution because introducing the changes will be such a large task for Ramblers.

Area There was a deficit of £1,196 this year as shown in the accounts. This is in line with planned budget and is intended to reduce the balance of cash held by Devon Area required by Central Office Guidelines.

Groups At the time of writing Groups are busy filing their Annual Returns. The Budgets have been submitted for 2013/14 and show great restraint in Group spending. Area has submitted an increase as last year was a special case. We await the approval of budgets by Central Office.

Thanks My thanks are due to Group Treasurers and to James Baldwin for all their work and help. In addition I would like to propose a vote of thanks to Stephanie Ackland for once again performing the Audit.

My Successor It is with some regret that I will leave my role at the AGM. However, after four years in the role I believe that it is right to move aside so that new blood can bring new ideas. James Baldwin has volunteered and if elected will bring skills including a willingness to question the status quo.

George Coles


Ramblers Devon AreaIncome & Expenditure Account for the Year Ended30 September 2013

Last Year 11/12

This Year 12/13

Area Income

3,315 Area Entitlement 1,944

145 Advertising Income 145

7 Bank Interest & sundry income 6

3,467 Total Income 2,095

Area Expenditure

421 Newsletters/publicity 295

754 Campaigns/casework 440

1,404 Meetings(inc AGM) 1,829

373 Admin 727

2,952 Total Expenditure 3,291

515 Area Surplus/(Deficit) -1,196

Group Income

6,205 Group Budget Funds from CO 5,569

6,205 Paid to Groups 5,569

0 Net Position Groups 0

515 Surplus/Defecit of Income less Expenditure -1,196

Balance SheetRepresented by Bank Account

Opening 6,611

Deficit brought down -1,196

Closing Bank Balance 5,415

Independent Examiner's Report

Having carried out procedures in accordance with Area and Group independent examiners guidelines, I consider

the Devon Area accounts to have been properly prepared and give a true and fair view of Devon Area's finances

for the year to 30 September 2013

Stephanie Ackland

Date: 13/10/13

Dartmoor Way Annual Report For Year Ending 30th September 2013

Dartmoor Way Annual Report For Year Ending 30/09/13

This report is published to complete the picture for Ramblers because the project was transferred to Sustrans as the Accountable Body during the year and the balance of funds (£90.00) was also transferred to Sustrans.

The project was completed and launched in October. A new way marked cycle route has been created around the moorland perimeter together with High Moorland link through Princetown. The route is described together with downloadable PDF maps on the web site, see www.dartmoorway.co.uk. The project has been very well received with lots of favourable comments from both prospective users and businesses which expect to benefit from increased traffic on the route.

We will now be working on funding the Footpath Route. This will be separate from the Cycle Route and will be fully way marked. We are looking forward to securing the funding for this exciting development for all walkers, it may well take a year or two.

George Coles Chair, Steering Group Dartmoor Way


Ramblers Devon AreaIncome & Expenditure Account for the Year Ended30 September 2013

Last Year 11/12

This Year 12/13

Area Income

3,315 Area Entitlement 1,944

145 Advertising Income 145

7 Bank Interest & sundry income 6

3,467 Total Income 2,095

Area Expenditure

421 Newsletters/publicity 295

754 Campaigns/casework 440

1,404 Meetings(inc AGM) 1,829

373 Admin 727

2,952 Total Expenditure 3,291

515 Area Surplus/(Deficit) -1,196

Group Income

6,205 Group Budget Funds from CO 5,569

6,205 Paid to Groups 5,569

0 Net Position Groups 0

515 Surplus/Defecit of Income less Expenditure -1,196

Balance SheetRepresented by Bank Account

Opening 6,611

Deficit brought down -1,196

Closing Bank Balance 5,415

Independent Examiner's Report

Having carried out procedures in accordance with Area and Group independent examiners guidelines, I consider

the Devon Area accounts to have been properly prepared and give a true and fair view of Devon Area's finances

for the year to 30 September 2013

Stephanie Ackland

Date: 13/10/13


Dartmoor Way Annual Report For Year Ending 30/09/13

This report is published to complete the picture for Ramblers because the project was transferred to Sustrans as the Accountable Body during the year and the balance of funds (£90.00) was also transferred to Sustrans.

The project was completed and launched in October. A new way marked cycle route has been created around the moorland perimeter together with High Moorland link through Princetown. The route is described together with downloadable PDF maps on the web site, see www.dartmoorway.co.uk. The project has been very well received with lots of favourable comments from both prospective users and businesses which expect to benefit from increased traffic on the route.

We will now be working on funding the Footpath Route. This will be separate from the Cycle Route and will be fully way marked. We are looking forward to securing the funding for this exciting development for all walkers, it may well take a year or two.

George Coles Chair, Steering Group Dartmoor Way



Dartmoor Way Annual Report For Year Ending 30/09/13 This report is published to complete the picture for Ramblers because the project was transferred to Sustrans as the Accountable Body during the year and the balance of funds (£90.00) was also transferred to Sustrans. The project was completed and launched in October. A new way marked cycle route has been created around the moorland perimeter together with High Moorland link through Princetown. The route is described together with downloadable PDF maps on the web site, see www.dartmoorway.co.uk. The project has been very well received with lots of favourable comments from both prospective user and businesses which expect to benefit from increased traffic on the route. We will now be working on funding the Footpath Route. This will be separate from the Cycle Route and will be fully way marked. We are looking forward to securing the funding for this exciting development for all walkers, it may well take a year or two. George Coles Chair, Steering Group Dartmoor Way

Membership Secretary’s Report Devon Group Numbers 1st October 2012—30th September 2013

1st October 2012 1st October 2013 Groups Numbers Payment Pending Numbers Payment Pend

East Devon 461 12 426 13

Exeter 263 8 222 8

Moorland 100 1 103 2

North Devon 321 5 302 15

Plymouth 350 22 343 12

South Devon 240 5 244 6

South Hams 229 7 227 5

Tavistock 156 4 151 3

Tiverton 114 5 106 2

Totnes 125 1 136 2

Teignmouth & Dawlish 164 2 167 1

Bootlegs 100 4 104 7

Non-Group 11 0 31 2

DEVON TOTAL 2634 76 2562 78

Devon Area Membership Numbers 2008-2013

National Devon 13/11/2008 —- 3516 30/11/2009 —- 2842 + 29* 1/10/2010 121498 2807 + 33* 1/10/2011 114707 2719 + 26* 1/10/2012 113317 2634 + 76* 1/10/2013 107015 2562 + 78* * = payment pending. All current figures based purelyon “ACTIVE” members; “PAYMENT PENDING” members are NOT counted but do receive membership benefits until three months have passed from date of payment due when they become “LAPSED” if they have not paid: membership benefits include insurance.”

John Minshall

Footpath Secretary’s Report Our Group Footpath Officers have continued to do a first-rate job watching over our Rights of Way and dealing with problems in their areas as they arise. We are aware that budgets for footpath maintenance are being squeezed and are grateful to the Rights of Way team at Devon County Council, and their counterparts within the National Parks, for continuing to keep paths in good order. Mike Jenkins retired in March after many years as Rights of Way Manager for Devon County Council. We have sent a card thanking him for all his work in keeping our paths in such good order and wished him a

long and happy retirement. Ros Mills has been appointed to his position and we look forward to working with her and her team.

Following our path clearance efforts in June last year, we were asked to clear another Unclassified County Road (track) near Bondleigh in Mid Devon. After postponement due to bad weather, this was finally achieved on 8th March with a team of 6 enthusiastic helpers. Following a meeting of the Dartmoor Recreational User Group, we were asked to help with some practical maintenance work within the National Park. There were 5 participants in a working party at Sheepstor and 6 at Merrivale. I am grateful to our South Devon group Footpath Officer, Alan Robinson, for coordinating this, but If this work is to expand we do need to seek a practical work coordinator.

Following the closure of the permissive path at Southdown, beside Meldon Reservoir, we held a rally on 25th August. The problem is not yet resolved but we are hopeful that progress is being made. There have been problems on the Coast Path during the year due to the bad weather causing landslips. Repairs have been carried out and diversionary routes put in place as fast as possible. As I write, the path at Ivy Cove, Lannacombe has been reopened and a diversionary route is being sought at Beacon Point, Thurlestone.

The River Coly path, which was won by the Ramblers a few years ago, and should form part of the East Devon Way, remains contentious. A third inspector has ordered Devon CC to make a deletion Order. When this is published, the Ramblers will lodge an objection. We are pleased that the new bridge across the River Walkham is now open along with the former Grenofen railway tunnel and this completes the cycleway from Yelverton to Whitchurch.

Kingsbridge FP15 (along the Quay) is now a Public Right of Way. Uffculme FP10 has

been reinstated as a Public Right of Way. The proposal to upgrade BW4 at Ashburton to a

BOAT (Byway Open to All Traffic) has been rejected. The Definitive Map Review continues with proposals for positive change in several Mid Devon parishes: Poughill, Woolfardisworthy, Cheriton Fitzpaine, Sandford.

Jenny Worsfold


Membership Secretary’s Report Devon Group Numbers 1st October 2012—30th September 2013

1st October 2012 1st October 2013 Groups Numbers Payment Pending Numbers Payment Pend

East Devon 461 12 426 13

Exeter 263 8 222 8

Moorland 100 1 103 2

North Devon 321 5 302 15

Plymouth 350 22 343 12

South Devon 240 5 244 6

South Hams 229 7 227 5

Tavistock 156 4 151 3

Tiverton 114 5 106 2

Totnes 125 1 136 2

Teignmouth & Dawlish 164 2 167 1

Bootlegs 100 4 104 7

Non-Group 11 0 31 2

DEVON TOTAL 2634 76 2562 78

Devon Area Membership Numbers 2008-2013

National Devon 13/11/2008 —- 3516 30/11/2009 —- 2842 + 29* 1/10/2010 121498 2807 + 33* 1/10/2011 114707 2719 + 26* 1/10/2012 113317 2634 + 76* 1/10/2013 107015 2562 + 78* * = payment pending. All current figures based purelyon “ACTIVE” members; “PAYMENT PENDING” members are NOT counted but do receive membership benefits until three months have passed from date of payment due when they become “LAPSED” if they have not paid: membership benefits include insurance.”

John Minshall

Footpath Secretary’s Report Our Group Footpath Officers have continued to do a first-rate job watching over our Rights of Way and dealing with problems in their areas as they arise. We are aware that budgets for footpath maintenance are being squeezed and are grateful to the Rights of Way team at Devon County Council, and their counterparts within the National Parks, for continuing to keep paths in good order. Mike Jenkins retired in March after many years as Rights of Way Manager for Devon County Council. We have sent a card thanking him for all his work in keeping our paths in such good order and wished him a

long and happy retirement. Ros Mills has been appointed to his position and we look forward to working with her and her team.

Following our path clearance efforts in June last year, we were asked to clear another Unclassified County Road (track) near Bondleigh in Mid Devon. After postponement due to bad weather, this was finally achieved on 8th March with a team of 6 enthusiastic helpers. Following a meeting of the Dartmoor Recreational User Group, we were asked to help with some practical maintenance work within the National Park. There were 5 participants in a working party at Sheepstor and 6 at Merrivale. I am grateful to our South Devon group Footpath Officer, Alan Robinson, for coordinating this, but If this work is to expand we do need to seek a practical work coordinator.

Following the closure of the permissive path at Southdown, beside Meldon Reservoir, we held a rally on 25th August. The problem is not yet resolved but we are hopeful that progress is being made. There have been problems on the Coast Path during the year due to the bad weather causing landslips. Repairs have been carried out and diversionary routes put in place as fast as possible. As I write, the path at Ivy Cove, Lannacombe has been reopened and a diversionary route is being sought at Beacon Point, Thurlestone.

The River Coly path, which was won by the Ramblers a few years ago, and should form part of the East Devon Way, remains contentious. A third inspector has ordered Devon CC to make a deletion Order. When this is published, the Ramblers will lodge an objection. We are pleased that the new bridge across the River Walkham is now open along with the former Grenofen railway tunnel and this completes the cycleway from Yelverton to Whitchurch.

Kingsbridge FP15 (along the Quay) is now a Public Right of Way. Uffculme FP10 has

been reinstated as a Public Right of Way. The proposal to upgrade BW4 at Ashburton to a

BOAT (Byway Open to All Traffic) has been rejected. The Definitive Map Review continues with proposals for positive change in several Mid Devon parishes: Poughill, Woolfardisworthy, Cheriton Fitzpaine, Sandford.

Jenny Worsfold


Access Officer’s Report Another year has come and nearly gone and yet the access problems before us remain much as in earlier years.

Adverse weather in the latter part of 2012 and early 2013 led to significant landslips and damage to the coast path particularly in South Devon near to Thurlestone and Lannacombe. This led to temporary but lengthy diversions of the coast path whilst alternative new routes were negotiated. To their credit, Rights of Way staff at Devon County Council were very soon dealing with these matters but it was a slow process involving several landowners. At time of writing

(October 2013) the new route at Lannacombe has been opened but negotiations about the Thurlestone diversion continue.

A side effect of this is that the negotiations for the new route at Strete village (where the coast path runs along the busy main road) have taken a lower priority at County Hall. Again several landowners are involved. It was only 1995 that Ramblers first campaigned for a better coastal path in this locality so maybe we must be patient a little longer.

Our four-legged canine friends have been banned from the CROW access land in the West Dart River Valley (Two Bridges to Hexworthy) for reasons of nature conservation since the CROW Act came into effect in August 2005. Such a restriction might be justified if the area was much frequented by people and particularly those with dogs. The reality is that hardly anyone goes there. The dog restriction was reviewed by the Dartmoor Park Authority in 2008, when it was decided the restriction should continue. The restriction was again reviewed in Autumn 2013 and I made strong representations that the restriction was not justified.

A personal achievement of the year was that in August I led my largest group of walkers ever when I had 56 people following me on the former permissive path at Meldon Reservoir. Just as well the weather was clear and sunny and no one was left behind ! We walked at the landowner’s invitation and with his permission. Subsequently, Robert Woolcott and I had a meeting with Dr Kevin Bishop, chief executive of Dartmoor National Park, to discuss the apparent impasse between the Park Authority and the landowner over the renewal of a permissive path agreement. Here again, things are on-going as this report is written. Robert and I are expecting to have a further meeting with the landowner to see if he is minded to re-open the path. If all else fails statutory processes (albeit rarely used and with no guarantee of success) are open to us.

The beautiful River Plym footpath from Shaugh Bridge to Bickleigh Bridge was physically closed to public use early in the year, following expiry of the permissive path agreement several years earlier. Despite earlier suggestions from Devon County Council that negotiations with landowners would take place, a more recent update from County Hall suggests this may not now happen or, if it does, with lower priority. Another issue to drag on for some time yet.

John Skinner

Countryside Secretary’s Report

Apart from the normal everyday things like posting on letters and planning lists, it’s been very quiet.

In the summer, I together with Rosemary Kimble and her husband attended a Ramblers conference on campaigning at Edale Youth Hostel in Derbyshire Much didn’t really apply to us in Devon where we don’t have that many problems. Also, although it was open to Countryside Officers, not much was applicable to us. One thing that we were encouraged to do was, if an area of land was to be built on near a river for instance in a town, was to try and get access on it before it was built on. I was a little too late with one such area in Tiverton, where McCarthy & Stone are planning to build some retirement homes which will be fenced off with an iron railings. This could have become an area for people to have a walk in their lunch hour or even sit and eat their lunch. Something that I would not have thought about or even considered. It shouldn’t have detracted from the river view for the residents, but could have become an amenity for workers in Tiverton.

Just before I went on holiday, I was asked to register so that we could comment on the ‘Atlantic Array’ off the North Devon Coast. However, I ran out of time. Even the help I asked for from Central Office came when I was away! Eileen Linfoot

Publicity Officer’s Report I have been unlucky with my press work this year. Last December, I asked if any of our Groups would like me to advertise their Christmas Walks in the Western Morning News (WMNs). Only one group said yes please! I asked because, as the WMN’s is a regional daily paper, they would only publish the first one that they received from Devon.

Again in July, Robert our chairman asked me to get a press report in on the rally at Meldon Reservoir. This time, none of the papers I contacted decided it was ‘newsworthy’. This was despite having some lovely pictures attached to our report. We were very disappointed. Perhaps it will be printed in December’s Walk Magazine, but I doubt it.

Eileen Linfoot







Eileen Linfoot


Access Officer’s Report Another year has come and nearly gone and yet the access problems before us remain much as in earlier years.

Adverse weather in the latter part of 2012 and early 2013 led to significant landslips and damage to the coast path particularly in South Devon near to Thurlestone and Lannacombe. This led to temporary but lengthy diversions of the coast path whilst alternative new routes were negotiated. To their credit, Rights of Way staff at Devon County Council were very soon dealing with these matters but it was a slow process involving several landowners. At time of writing

(October 2013) the new route at Lannacombe has been opened but negotiations about the Thurlestone diversion continue.

A side effect of this is that the negotiations for the new route at Strete village (where the coast path runs along the busy main road) have taken a lower priority at County Hall. Again several landowners are involved. It was only 1995 that Ramblers first campaigned for a better coastal path in this locality so maybe we must be patient a little longer.

Our four-legged canine friends have been banned from the CROW access land in the West Dart River Valley (Two Bridges to Hexworthy) for reasons of nature conservation since the CROW Act came into effect in August 2005. Such a restriction might be justified if the area was much frequented by people and particularly those with dogs. The reality is that hardly anyone goes there. The dog restriction was reviewed by the Dartmoor Park Authority in 2008, when it was decided the restriction should continue. The restriction was again reviewed in Autumn 2013 and I made strong representations that the restriction was not justified.

A personal achievement of the year was that in August I led my largest group of walkers ever when I had 56 people following me on the former permissive path at Meldon Reservoir. Just as well the weather was clear and sunny and no one was left behind ! We walked at the landowner’s invitation and with his permission. Subsequently, Robert Woolcott and I had a meeting with Dr Kevin Bishop, chief executive of Dartmoor National Park, to discuss the apparent impasse between the Park Authority and the landowner over the renewal of a permissive path agreement. Here again, things are on-going as this report is written. Robert and I are expecting to have a further meeting with the landowner to see if he is minded to re-open the path. If all else fails statutory processes (albeit rarely used and with no guarantee of success) are open to us.

The beautiful River Plym footpath from Shaugh Bridge to Bickleigh Bridge was physically closed to public use early in the year, following expiry of the permissive path agreement several years earlier. Despite earlier suggestions from Devon County Council that negotiations with landowners would take place, a more recent update from County Hall suggests this may not now happen or, if it does, with lower priority. Another issue to drag on for some time yet.

John Skinner







Eileen Linfoot







Eileen Linfoot


Web Master’s Report During the 2012-13 year we have had various overhauls and updates to the website. In addition to the Annual Report, the revised Area Constitution is also a permanent feature on the Home page. Both greatly reduce the costs of printing and distribution and is also environmentally friendly.

All Groups have contact details on the Area Website and I am sure we all benefit from this with the high number of people looking at the site for contact details and walks in Devon. It is important to keep Group contact details up to date as we are informed that a high

percentage of new enquiries and membership to the Ramblers comes through this media now. So if your Group contact details change please advise me and I will get them changed.

I believe that nearly all of the Groups in Devon Area contribute their walks programmes to the main database at Ramblers Central Office for inclusion on the national walksfinder database. I am sure this helps greatly with (a) Ramblers members visiting other areas, and (b) attracting new people to the Ramblers.

The “Blog” that Nick Savage set up in 2012 has been a great success and Groups have been able to contribute to it just like having our own News Extra so that we can all see what everyone else is doing

We are currently enjoying around 9000 visits to the Area Website per annum.

Mike Long

News Editor’s Report The digital version of Area News is going strong with no cost to the organisation. As well as regular updates from Teignmouth and Dawlish on their walks, this year we have had reports on: the campaign for access at Meldon reservoir; the Ramblers' annual national meeting; a report from North Devon Ramblers on their meeting with Nick Harvey, MP for North Devon to discuss cuts in the footpath budget and a guest spot for the Otter Trail campaign.

These are all still available on the blog at: http://devonramblersnews.blogspot.co.uk/. New items about Ramblers success stories, ongoing campaigns and other news are very welcome. Please email the text to [email protected]. A photo helps to add interest to a story - just attach one or more photos to your email.

Many thanks to all those who submitted stories in the last year.

Nick Savage

East Devon Group Despite a significant drop in membership from 471 in September 2012 to 433 in 2013 the Group continues to be the largest in Devon with a hard working committee providing members with a broad range of walks, social events and holiday opportunities. The committee welcomes input from all members and has acted on suggestions made. The committee thanks all members for their suggestions for trips and events, please keep them coming.

Monitoring the Rights of Way within East Devon presents a challenge to the footpath team but relations with DCC continue to be good despite budget cuts within the County. Long term projects, such as the Coley Path, continue to challenge the Group Researcher and Central Office.

Numbers on each walk have reduced but the total number of members out walking has increased. This is because more walks are being offered each week to keep the numbers per walk to a sustainable level so that pressure on car parking and leaders is reduced. The Group has joined Ramblers Worldwide Holidays in their ‘Walking Partnership’ scheme. This means that whenever a member takes a holiday with the company they give the East Devon Group a donation from profits. The Group has benefited substantially this year and the proceeds will be used on footpath work. The committee thanks all members who have supported us in this way and should you wish to participate in this scheme in the future please check out the Ramblers Holidays advertisement in the programme.

A walking holiday based on Craven Arms in Shropshire was organised by John and Beryl Watson and attracted some 24 people. A smaller group travelled to the French Alps in the summer and stayed with Joyce Stevenson’s daughter’s at their superb skiing chalet.

Two coach trips were run during the year, one to Wheddon Cross to admire the snowdrops and another to Bristol where 43 members and friends enjoyed a trip around Brunel’s SS Great Britain. Thanks to Vicky Swain and Julien Bradshaw for organising the trips. Social events have been well supported with a ‘chat and eat’ at a local hostelry, a quiz evening and a visit to the Otter brewery. However our most popular event with 65 members and guests was the annual Christmas lunch taken for the second year at the Devoncourt hotel in Exmouth

Ted Swan , Group Secretary


Web Master’s Report During the 2012-13 year we have had various overhauls and updates to the website. In addition to the Annual Report, the revised Area Constitution is also a permanent feature on the Home page. Both greatly reduce the costs of printing and distribution and is also environmentally friendly.

All Groups have contact details on the Area Website and I am sure we all benefit from this with the high number of people looking at the site for contact details and walks in Devon. It is important to keep Group contact details up to date as we are informed that a high

percentage of new enquiries and membership to the Ramblers comes through this media now. So if your Group contact details change please advise me and I will get them changed.

I believe that nearly all of the Groups in Devon Area contribute their walks programmes to the main database at Ramblers Central Office for inclusion on the national walksfinder database. I am sure this helps greatly with (a) Ramblers members visiting other areas, and (b) attracting new people to the Ramblers.

The “Blog” that Nick Savage set up in 2012 has been a great success and Groups have been able to contribute to it just like having our own News Extra so that we can all see what everyone else is doing

We are currently enjoying around 9000 visits to the Area Website per annum.

Mike Long

News Editor’s Report The digital version of Area News is going strong with no cost to the organisation. As well as regular updates from Teignmouth and Dawlish on their walks, this year we have had reports on: the campaign for access at Meldon reservoir; the Ramblers' annual national meeting; a report from North Devon Ramblers on their meeting with Nick Harvey, MP for North Devon to discuss cuts in the footpath budget and a guest spot for the Otter Trail campaign.

These are all still available on the blog at: http://devonramblersnews.blogspot.co.uk/. New items about Ramblers success stories, ongoing campaigns and other news are very welcome. Please email the text to [email protected]. A photo helps to add interest to a story - just attach one or more photos to your email.


Nick Savage

East Devon Group Despite a significant drop in membership from 471 in September 2012 to 433 in 2013 the Group continues to be the largest in Devon with a hard working committee providing members with a broad range of walks, social events and holiday opportunities. The committee welcomes input from all members and has acted on suggestions made. The committee thanks all members for their suggestions for trips and events, please keep them coming.

Monitoring the Rights of Way within East Devon presents a challenge to the footpath team but relations with DCC continue to be good despite budget cuts within the County. Long term projects, such as the Coley Path, continue to challenge the Group Researcher and Central Office.

Numbers on each walk have reduced but the total number of members out walking has increased. This is because more walks are being offered each week to keep the numbers per walk to a sustainable level so that pressure on car parking and leaders is reduced. The Group has joined Ramblers Worldwide Holidays in their ‘Walking Partnership’ scheme. This means that whenever a member takes a holiday with the company they give the East Devon Group a donation from profits. The Group has benefited substantially this year and the proceeds will be used on footpath work. The committee thanks all members who have supported us in this way and should you wish to participate in this scheme in the future please check out the Ramblers Holidays advertisement in the programme.

A walking holiday based on Craven Arms in Shropshire was organised by John and Beryl Watson and attracted some 24 people. A smaller group travelled to the French Alps in the summer and stayed with Joyce Stevenson’s daughter’s at their superb skiing chalet.

Two coach trips were run during the year, one to Wheddon Cross to admire the snowdrops and another to Bristol where 43 members and friends enjoyed a trip around Brunel’s SS Great Britain. Thanks to Vicky Swain and Julien Bradshaw for organising the trips. Social events have been well supported with a ‘chat and eat’ at a local hostelry, a quiz evening and a visit to the Otter brewery. However our most popular event with 65 members and guests was the annual Christmas lunch taken for the second year at the Devoncourt hotel in Exmouth

Ted Swan , Group Secretary


East Devon Group Despite a significant drop in membership from 471 in September 2012 to 433 in 2013 the Group continues to be the largest in Devon with a hard working committee providing members with a broad range of walks, social events and holiday opportunities. The committee welcomes input from all members and has acted on suggestions made. The committee thanks all members for their suggestions for trips and events, please keep them coming. Monitoring the Rights of Way within East Devon presents a challenge to the footpath team but relations with DCC continue to be good despite budget cuts within the County. Long term projects, such as the Coley Path, continue to challenge the Group Researcher and Central Office. Numbers on each walk have reduced but the total number of members out walking has increased. This is because more walks are being offered each week to keep the numbers per walk to a sustainable level so that pressure on car parking and leaders is reduced. The Group has joined Ramblers Worldwide Holidays in their ‘Walking Partnership’ scheme. This means that whenever a member takes a holiday with the company they give the East Devon Group a donation from profits. The Group has benefited substantially this year and the proceeds will be used on footpath work. The committee thanks all members who have supported us in this way and should you wish to participate in this scheme in the future please check out the Ramblers Holidays advertisement in the programme. A walking holiday based on Craven Arms in Shropshire was organised by John and Beryl Watson and attracted some 24 people. A smaller group travelled to the French Alps in the summer and stayed with Joyce Stevenson’s daughter’s at their superb skiing chalet. Two coach trips were run during the year, one to Wheddon Cross to admire the snowdrops and another to Bristol where 43 members and friends enjoyed a trip around Brunel’s SS Great Britain. Thanks to Vicky Swain and Julien Bradshaw for organising the trips. Social events have been well supported with a ‘chat and eat’ at a local hostelry, a quiz evening and a visit to the Otter brewery. However our most popular event with 65 members and guests was the annual Christmas lunch taken for the second year at the Devoncourt hotel in Exmouth Ted Swan , Group Secretary

Exeter And District Group The group has enjoyed another year of varied and well supported walks. Our regular walks have been on Sundays, but there have also been walks during the week and on Saturdays. The weekday and Saturday walks have tended to be shorter than those on Sundays, sometimes finishing at a local pub or cafe for lunch, giving the opportunity for a chat and also for non-walkers to join the others for the meal. Our thanks go to our walks secretaries, Anne and Christine, as well as to the team of dedicated walk leaders for contributing to such a varied programme.

Our AGM was well attended and a presentation was made to Yvonne in recognition of the hard work she has put in as walks secretary. Anne was elected at the meeting as the new walks secretary and she has combined this post with her existing role of welfare secretary.

The Group’s annual weekend away last October visited Brecon and was organised by Colin. Three walks of varying length were offered each day and we had good weather and excellent accommodation at the Castle Hotel. On Saturday the longest walk was to the summit of Pen y Fan, where we joined many other individuals and groups who had scaled the summit, showing what a popular area this is for walkers. Thanks go to Colin for his careful and thorough organising and to all the walk leaders for making the weekend such a great success.

Our Christmas lunch was held at the Lord Haldon Hotel and a number of us enjoyed a brief pre-lunch stroll led by Christine in the winter sunshine around Haldon Hill. The event was organised by David and Sue, who were unable to attend due to the arrival of their first grandchild. In their absence, we thanked David and Sue for arranging the lunch and “wetted the baby’s head”.

One of our regular outings has been to Bowerman’s Cottage near Manaton and we stayed at the cottage again in mid-April, where thirteen members spent another enjoyable weekend. In contrast to last year, the weather was good and we enjoyed excellent views, particularly on the Saturday walk. On the second evening we had dinner at the Ring of Bells in North Bovey and a number of the party extended their mileage by walking to and from the pub, being rewarded by a glorious sunset on the way back.

In early August, a small informal walking group went to Derbyshire on an impromptu trip to the Peak District. To cut costs we stayed in the youth hostel at Castleton from where we managed to sample some of the varied walking delights of the area: Mam Tor, Kinder Scout, Millers Dale and Stanage Edge. We also endured a terrifying underground boat trip through an old lead mine – by accident! Good times, and we look forward to more such ventures.

David and Christine will be stepping down at the next AGM as Treasurer and Secretary respectively. Both have served the group for many years and Christine has also been

compiling the short walks programme. Thanks go to them both for the contribution they

have made to the smooth running of the group’s activities.

Exeter and District ramblers admire the view from the Air Force Memorial, Hameldown

Our Footpaths Officer has continued to look after our Rights of Way and her hard work is appreciated. We still have a vacancy for a footpath officer to look after the area of mid Devon around Crediton.

As yet, we have not found a volunteer to take up the challenge of organising and running a web site for the group, and we are also always seeking new walk leaders to increase the number and variety of the walks on offer. Both of these aims may lead to a halt or a reversal of the gradually reducing membership of the group.

We look forward to a year where already there is a weekend away in Hereford planned for October, and another visit to Bowerman’s cottage scheduled for April. We hope for further social events and, of course, to have a full programme of walks for all members of the group to enjoy.

Richard Clarkson Chairman


Exeter And District Group The group has enjoyed another year of varied and well supported walks. Our regular walks have been on Sundays, but there have also been walks during the week and on Saturdays. The weekday and Saturday walks have tended to be shorter than those on Sundays, sometimes finishing at a local pub or cafe for lunch, giving the opportunity for a chat and also for non-walkers to join the others for the meal. Our thanks go to our walks secretaries, Anne and Christine, as well as to the team of dedicated walk leaders for contributing to such a varied programme.

Our AGM was well attended and a presentation was made to Yvonne in recognition of the hard work she has put in as walks secretary. Anne was elected at the meeting as the new walks secretary and she has combined this post with her existing role of welfare secretary.

The Group’s annual weekend away last October visited Brecon and was organised by Colin. Three walks of varying length were offered each day and we had good weather and excellent accommodation at the Castle Hotel. On Saturday the longest walk was to the summit of Pen y Fan, where we joined many other individuals and groups who had scaled the summit, showing what a popular area this is for walkers. Thanks go to Colin for his careful and thorough organising and to all the walk leaders for making the weekend such a great success.

Our Christmas lunch was held at the Lord Haldon Hotel and a number of us enjoyed a brief pre-lunch stroll led by Christine in the winter sunshine around Haldon Hill. The event was organised by David and Sue, who were unable to attend due to the arrival of their first grandchild. In their absence, we thanked David and Sue for arranging the lunch and “wetted the baby’s head”.

One of our regular outings has been to Bowerman’s Cottage near Manaton and we stayed at the cottage again in mid-April, where thirteen members spent another enjoyable weekend. In contrast to last year, the weather was good and we enjoyed excellent views, particularly on the Saturday walk. On the second evening we had dinner at the Ring of Bells in North Bovey and a number of the party extended their mileage by walking to and from the pub, being rewarded by a glorious sunset on the way back.

In early August, a small informal walking group went to Derbyshire on an impromptu trip to the Peak District. To cut costs we stayed in the youth hostel at Castleton from where we managed to sample some of the varied walking delights of the area: Mam Tor, Kinder Scout, Millers Dale and Stanage Edge. We also endured a terrifying underground boat trip through an old lead mine – by accident! Good times, and we look forward to more such ventures.

David and Christine will be stepping down at the next AGM as Treasurer and Secretary respectively. Both have served the group for many years and Christine has also been

compiling the short walks programme. Thanks go to them both for the contribution they

have made to the smooth running of the group’s activities.



As yet, we have not found a volunteer to take up the challenge of organising and running a web site for the group, and we are also always seeking new walk leaders to increase the number and variety of the walks on offer. Both of these aims may lead to a halt or a reversal of the gradually reducing membership of the group.

We look forward to a year where already there is a weekend away in Hereford planned for October, and another visit to Bowerman’s cottage scheduled for April. We hope for further social events and, of course, to have a full programme of walks for all members of the group to enjoy.





As yet, we have not found a volunteer to take up the challenge of organising and running a web site for the group, and we are also always seeking new walk leaders to increase the number and variety of the walks on offer. Both of these aims may lead to a halt or a re-versal of the gradually reducing membership of the group.

We look forward to a year where already there is a weekend away in Hereford planned for October, and another visit to Bowerman’s cottage scheduled for April. We hope for fur-ther social events and, of course, to have a full programme of walks for all members of the group to enjoy.


Devon Bootlegs

Bootlegs admire the view

Devon Bootlegs have had another busy year attracting several new members. We have continued to maintain full walks programmes with a walk every Sunday as well as several trips away throughout the course of the year; notably Coverack at Easter, Pembrokeshire in May and some of us have just returned from a week long break in the Scottish Highlands. These have all been very successful and we are already planning trips for 2014!

We also continue to hold social events throughout the year and we have two Christmas parties planned. We are all very much looking forward to striding ahead in 2014 on many more beautiful walks and trips away.

Jenna Chynoweth

Chairman

Moorland Group

General. The Moorland Group has continued to maintain a full and very interesting walks programme throughout the past 12 months, as well as organizing some excellent social functions and a weekend away in Cornwall.

Walks. Over the reporting period the group organized 46 walks. Of the 46 walks undertaken, 9 were over 15 miles and 37 were over 10 miles. Included in the Walks Programme was a 14 mile circular tour of Exeter city, a coastal walk in the area of Labrador Bay, and the Chagford Challenge, where members undertaking the 21 mile walk had to battle against fog, freezing temperatures, gale force winds, and rime ice forming on exposed windward surfaces! Despite the exceptionally wet winter and very cold Spring which led to an extensive period of rain sodden moor and overflowing bogs, the Group managed to walk "off trail" on the high moor on 19 occasions.

Eighteen members attended the group weekend away at Bude in Cornwall over the period of Friday 10th May to Sunday 12th May, where 3 walks totaling 34 miles were undertaken. The 3 walks included the Planekeeper's Path along the former Bude Canal, then on to Stratton and back along the coast path to the north of Bude, a walk from Morwenstow inland to Marsland Mouth and back south along a very hilly part of the coast path, and finally another very hilly walk from Millook (to the south of Bude) south along the coast to St Gennys and back via inland paths and tracks. The weather was not user friendly and it remained very windy and cold throughout the weekend with drizzle and rain showers on the Sunday. On the 9th June the group undertook the annual Hilda Biscoe memorial walk. The walk was 20 miles with a total of 2900 feet of ascent and took in the approximate route used in the 13th century to transport the dead across the moor from Postbridge to Lydford (and the distance included the walk back to Postbridge on a parallel route). Our winter programme of walks is now complete and again we continue to have some interesting and challenging walks on offer over the next 6 months.

Membership. Overall, our group membership is up by 5 from this time last year. Our current membership stands at 107, which includes 2 Emeritus Members. Thanks to the continued efforts of 2 members of our Group, we have gained in popularity through our excellent website (www.moorlandramblers.org.uk); which in turn has increased the Group’s profile and led to several new members and quite a few enquiries about group walks etc.

Committee Members. We finally managed to fill the appointment of Footpaths Officer that had been vacant for almost 2 years. Those members currently filling the other committee appointments have kindly volunteered to undertake another term of service; for which the group is most grateful.

Social. The Annual Social Dinner was held at the Positano Restaurant in Plymouth city centre on Friday 14th June. The Positano Restaurant is jointly owned by one of the Group and those attending the dinner were rewarded with an exceptional level of table service as well as an outstanding menu. For those members attending the weekend away in Cornwall, another very successful dinner was held at the Brendon Arms in Bude.


Devon Bootlegs


Devon Bootlegs have had another busy year attracting several new members. We have continued to maintain full walks programmes with a walk every Sunday as well as several trips away throughout the course of the year; notably Coverack at Easter, Pembrokeshire in May and some of us have just returned from a week long break in the Scottish Highlands. These have all been very successful and we are already planning trips for 2014! We also continue to hold social events throughout the year and we have two Christmas parties planned. We are all very much looking forward to striding ahead in 2014 on many more beautiful walks and trips away. Jenna Chynoweth Chairman

Devon Bootlegs


Devon Bootlegs have had another busy year attracting several new members. We have continued to maintain full walks programmes with a walk every Sunday as well as several trips away throughout the course of the year; notably Coverack at Easter, Pembrokeshire in May and some of us have just returned from a week long break in the Scottish Highlands. These have all been very successful and we are already planning trips for 2014!

We also continue to hold social events throughout the year and we have two Christmas parties planned. We are all very much looking forward to striding ahead in 2014 on many more beautiful walks and trips away.

Jenna Chynoweth

Chairman

Moorland Group

General. The Moorland Group has continued to maintain a full and very interesting walks programme throughout the past 12 months, as well as organizing some excellent social functions and a weekend away in Cornwall.

Walks. Over the reporting period the group organized 46 walks. Of the 46 walks undertaken, 9 were over 15 miles and 37 were over 10 miles. Included in the Walks Programme was a 14 mile circular tour of Exeter city, a coastal walk in the area of Labrador Bay, and the Chagford Challenge, where members undertaking the 21 mile walk had to battle against fog, freezing temperatures, gale force winds, and rime ice forming on exposed windward surfaces! Despite the exceptionally wet winter and very cold Spring which led to an extensive period of rain sodden moor and overflowing bogs, the Group managed to walk "off trail" on the high moor on 19 occasions.

Eighteen members attended the group weekend away at Bude in Cornwall over the period of Friday 10th May to Sunday 12th May, where 3 walks totaling 34 miles were undertaken. The 3 walks included the Planekeeper's Path along the former Bude Canal, then on to Stratton and back along the coast path to the north of Bude, a walk from Morwenstow inland to Marsland Mouth and back south along a very hilly part of the coast path, and finally another very hilly walk from Millook (to the south of Bude) south along the coast to St Gennys and back via inland paths and tracks. The weather was not user friendly and it remained very windy and cold throughout the weekend with drizzle and rain showers on the Sunday. On the 9th June the group undertook the annual Hilda Biscoe memorial walk. The walk was 20 miles with a total of 2900 feet of ascent and took in the approximate route used in the 13th century to transport the dead across the moor from Postbridge to Lydford (and the distance included the walk back to Postbridge on a parallel route). Our winter programme of walks is now complete and again we continue to have some interesting and challenging walks on offer over the next 6 months.

Membership. Overall, our group membership is up by 5 from this time last year. Our current membership stands at 107, which includes 2 Emeritus Members. Thanks to the continued efforts of 2 members of our Group, we have gained in popularity through our excellent website (www.moorlandramblers.org.uk); which in turn has increased the Group’s profile and led to several new members and quite a few enquiries about group walks etc.

Committee Members. We finally managed to fill the appointment of Footpaths Officer that had been vacant for almost 2 years. Those members currently filling the other committee appointments have kindly volunteered to undertake another term of service; for which the group is most grateful.

Social. The Annual Social Dinner was held at the Positano Restaurant in Plymouth city centre on Friday 14th June. The Positano Restaurant is jointly owned by one of the Group and those attending the dinner were rewarded with an exceptional level of table service as well as an outstanding menu. For those members attending the weekend away in Cornwall, another very successful dinner was held at the Brendon Arms in Bude.


HSAW & Finance. There are no significant points to report on these 2 subjects, except to say that the group funds remain healthy.

Other Activities. Although not a formally organized RA activity, it is worth a mention that 13 members on 2 different expeditions undertook the Tour du Mont Blanc over the Summer period. The 2 expeditions were organized through travel companies and it involved some 208 kilometers of walking and a total of 11,500 metres of climb in 11 days; with one or 2 rest days. They were two very worthwhile trips and totally enjoyable.

Graham Wilding Group Chairman

Moorland Group members pause at High Willhays

South Hams Group Yet another year has gone by and what a marvellous summer; possibly too hot on some walks! Our numbers have remained the same around the 225 mark, of whom about 60 to 80 are regular walkers. We continue to put on three walks per week, mostly between 7 and 9 miles with a few shorter or longer ones. Numbers on each walk average about 16 with 30 or more on the more popular walks.

Mandy Fletcher has done a marvellous job as Social Secretary and has introduced some new events as well as reviving the boat trip on the Kingsbridge Estuary. We also enjoyed a quiz in October, the Annual Dinner at the Cottage Hotel, Hope Cove, a skittles evening, cream tea, and the usual summer picnic once again hosted by John and Jacci Woodley, as well as the BBQ at David and Liz Raeburn's Farm.

South Hams Ramblers on Dartmoor

We have also been involved in some working parties. David Magee and Bronwen Zaffiro took on one on Dartmoor at short notice in the summer and Howard Parton, armed with paint brush, has been shining up various footpath signs and looking after the diversion signs around the cliff fall at Lannacombe.

Mike Torrens, our paths officer has kept us up to date with path diversions etc. of which there have been some quite serious ones, due to the inclement weather and land slips on the coast.

Over 30 members enjoyed a short walking holiday in the Cotswolds in May.

Mike Farrell Chairman


HSAW & Finance. There are no significant points to report on these 2 subjects, except to say that the group funds remain healthy. Other Activities. Although not a formally organized RA activity, it is worth a mention that 13 members on 2 different expeditions undertook the Tour du Mont Blanc over the Summer period. The 2 expeditions were organized through travel companies and it involved some 208 kilometers of walking and a total of 11,500 metres of climb in 11 days; with one or 2 rest days. They were two very worthwhile trips and totally enjoyable. Graham Wilding Group Chairman


HSAW & Finance. There are no significant points to report on these 2 subjects, except to say that the group funds remain healthy.

Other Activities. Although not a formally organized RA activity, it is worth a mention that 13 members on 2 different expeditions undertook the Tour du Mont Blanc over the Summer period. The 2 expeditions were organized through travel companies and it involved some 208 kilometers of walking and a total of 11,500 metres of climb in 11 days; with one or 2 rest days. They were two very worthwhile trips and totally enjoyable.

Graham Wilding Group Chairman


South Hams Group Yet another year has gone by and what a marvellous summer; possibly too hot on some walks! Our numbers have remained the same around the 225 mark, of whom about 60 to 80 are regular walkers. We continue to put on three walks per week, mostly between 7 and 9 miles with a few shorter or longer ones. Numbers on each walk average about 16 with 30 or more on the more popular walks.

Mandy Fletcher has done a marvellous job as Social Secretary and has introduced some new events as well as reviving the boat trip on the Kingsbridge Estuary. We also enjoyed a quiz in October, the Annual Dinner at the Cottage Hotel, Hope Cove, a skittles evening, cream tea, and the usual summer picnic once again hosted by John and Jacci Woodley, as well as the BBQ at David and Liz Raeburn's Farm.

South Hams Ramblers on Dartmoor

We have also been involved in some working parties. David Magee and Bronwen Zaffiro took on one on Dartmoor at short notice in the summer and Howard Parton, armed with paint brush, has been shining up various footpath signs and looking after the diversion signs around the cliff fall at Lannacombe.

Mike Torrens, our paths officer has kept us up to date with path diversions etc. of which there have been some quite serious ones, due to the inclement weather and land slips on the coast.

Over 30 members enjoyed a short walking holiday in the Cotswolds in May.

Mike Farrell Chairman


South Hams Group

Yet another year has gone by and what a marvellous summer; possibly too hot on some walks! Our numbers have remained the same around the 225 mark, of whom about 60 to 80 are regular walkers. We continue to put on three walks per week, mostly between 7 and 9 miles with a few shorter or longer ones. Numbers on each walk average about 16 with 30 or more on the more popular walks. Mandy Fletcher has done a marvellous job as Social Secretary and has introduced some new events as well as reviving the boat trip on the Kingsbridge Estuary. We also enjoyed a quiz in October, the Annual Dinner at the Cottage Hotel, Hope Cove, a skittles evening, cream tea, and the usual summer picnic once again hosted by John and Jacci Woodley, as well as the BBQ at David and Liz Raeburn's Farm.

South Hams Ramblers on Dartmoor We have also been involved in some working parties. David Magee and Bronwen Zaffiro took on one on Dartmoor at short notice in the summer and Howard Parton, armed with paint brush, has been shining up various footpath signs and looking after the diversion signs around the cliff fall at Lannacombe. Mike Torrens, our paths officer has kept us up to date with path diversions etc. of which there have been some quite serious ones, due to the inclement weather and land slips on the coast. Over 30 members enjoyed a short walking holiday in the Cotswolds in May. Mike Farrell Chairman

North Devon Group

North Devon Group Ramblers at the Meldon rally walk

Our group has had another full and varied year, our 36th since formation in 1977. Unfortunately, in line with most other Areas and Groups our net membership has fallen from 321 to just over 300. We do as much as possible to advertise our existence and what Ramblers offers as the walking charity. Our Publicity Officer, Julian, and his helpers spent three days at the Devon County Fayre and National Sheepdog Trials at Filleigh in July and we took our usual stand at the North Devon Show in August. We have also put on displays in local libraries as well as managing to get our walks in the ‘What’s On’ columns in our two local papers.

Members have enjoyed a variety of walks and social events such as a skittle evening in November, our Annual dinner in March, a break to Swanage in March and a farm walk on one of our hottest summer days. Ten walks used scheduled bus transport and one used the Tarka rail line service. We hosted three walks for the Winter Walking Festival plus joining the National Trust at Arlington Court to ‘Walk the old year out’. Each month we organise a ‘Nice and Easy’ walk of 3-4 miles with a lunch or tea option at the end. The social side of these walks is especially appreciated and also enables non-walking members to join us.

North Devon Ramblers meet Nick Harvey MP

North Devon has also been active in promoting Ramblers work, with sixteen walkers enjoying their day out at the Meldon rally organised by Devon Area on August Bank Holiday Sunday. More recently six of our members met with North Devon MP, Nick Harvey, to build communication links and remind him how important walking and the countryside is to everyone. It was good to be able to tell him of Ramblers’ successes in helping to change legislation to benefit walkers since our formation in 1935.

Our finances are still in good shape thanks to our nine regular adverts that go out with each programme and the hand delivery of about 50% of our programmes. With the second largest geographical patch of groups in Devon travel is our main expense. Sometimes our footpath officers have to take a 50-60 mile round trip to assess diversion proposals etc. We have two officers to cover North Devon and Torridge who respond to a regular number of footpath complaints, diversion proposals and planning applications affecting rights of way.

We welcomed the Area Chairman to our AGM in November when officers gave their reports and we elected our committee. Unfortunately no one came forward to fill the post of Group Secretary so our Chairman and Publicity Officer continue to share the work involved. We look forward to the privilege of hosting the Area AGM in February and hope to see as many members as possible there from all other Devon groups.

Joan Long Group Chairman


North Devon Group


Our group has had another full and varied year, our 36th since formation in 1977. Unfortunately, in line with most other Areas and Groups our net membership has fallen from 321 to just over 300. We do as much as possible to advertise our existence and what Ramblers offers as the walking charity. Our Publicity Officer, Julian, and his helpers spent three days at the Devon County Fayre and National Sheepdog Trials at Filleigh in July and we took our usual stand at the North Devon Show in August. We have also put on displays in local libraries as well as managing to get our walks in the ‘What’s On’ columns in our two local papers. Members have enjoyed a variety of walks and social events such as a skittle evening in November, our Annual dinner in March, a break to Swanage in March and a farm walk on one of our hottest summer days. Ten walks used scheduled bus transport and one used the Tarka rail line service. We hosted three walks for the Winter Walking Festival plus joining the National Trust at Arlington Court to ‘Walk the old year out’. Each month we organise a ‘Nice and Easy’ walk of 3-4 miles with a lunch or tea option at the end. The social side of these walks is especially appreciated and also enables non-walking members to join us.

North Devon Group


Our group has had another full and varied year, our 36th since formation in 1977. Unfortunately, in line with most other Areas and Groups our net membership has fallen from 321 to just over 300. We do as much as possible to advertise our existence and what Ramblers offers as the walking charity. Our Publicity Officer, Julian, and his helpers spent three days at the Devon County Fayre and National Sheepdog Trials at Filleigh in July and we took our usual stand at the North Devon Show in August. We have also put on displays in local libraries as well as managing to get our walks in the ‘What’s On’ columns in our two local papers.

Members have enjoyed a variety of walks and social events such as a skittle evening in November, our Annual dinner in March, a break to Swanage in March and a farm walk on one of our hottest summer days. Ten walks used scheduled bus transport and one used the Tarka rail line service. We hosted three walks for the Winter Walking Festival plus joining the National Trust at Arlington Court to ‘Walk the old year out’. Each month we organise a ‘Nice and Easy’ walk of 3-4 miles with a lunch or tea option at the end. The social side of these walks is especially appreciated and also enables non-walking members to join us.

North Devon Ramblers meet Nick Harvey MP

North Devon has also been active in promoting Ramblers work, with sixteen walkers enjoying their day out at the Meldon rally organised by Devon Area on August Bank Holiday Sunday. More recently six of our members met with North Devon MP, Nick Harvey, to build communication links and remind him how important walking and the countryside is to everyone. It was good to be able to tell him of Ramblers’ successes in helping to change legislation to benefit walkers since our formation in 1935.

Our finances are still in good shape thanks to our nine regular adverts that go out with each programme and the hand delivery of about 50% of our programmes. With the second largest geographical patch of groups in Devon travel is our main expense. Sometimes our footpath officers have to take a 50-60 mile round trip to assess diversion proposals etc. We have two officers to cover North Devon and Torridge who respond to a regular number of footpath complaints, diversion proposals and planning applications affecting rights of way.

We welcomed the Area Chairman to our AGM in November when officers gave their reports and we elected our committee. Unfortunately no one came forward to fill the post of Group Secretary so our Chairman and Publicity Officer continue to share the work involved. We look forward to the privilege of hosting the Area AGM in February and hope to see as many members as possible there from all other Devon groups.

Joan Long Group Chairman


North Devon Ramblers meet Nick Harvey MP North Devon has also been active in promoting Ramblers work, with sixteen walkers enjoying their day out at the Meldon rally organised by Devon Area on August Bank Holiday Sunday. More recently six of our members met with North Devon MP, Nick Harvey, to build communication links and remind him how important walking and the countryside is to everyone. It was good to be able to tell him of Ramblers’ successes in helping to change legislation to benefit walkers since our formation in 1935. Our finances are still in good shape thanks to our nine regular adverts that go out with each programme and the hand delivery of about 50% of our programmes. With the second largest geographical patch of groups in Devon travel is our main expense. Sometimes our footpath officers have to take a 50-60 mile round trip to assess diversion proposals etc. We have two officers to cover North Devon and Torridge who respond to a regular number of footpath complaints, diversion proposals and planning applications affecting rights of way. We welcomed the Area Chairman to our AGM in November when officers gave their reports and we elected our committee. Unfortunately no one came forward to fill the post of Group Secretary so our Chairman and Publicity Officer continue to share the work involved. We look forward to the privilege of hosting the Area AGM in February and hope to see as many members as possible there from all other Devon groups. Joan Long Group Chairman

Plymouth and District Group This year we have again enjoyed a year full of interesting and varied walks, outings, holidays and weekends away. Our thanks go to the hard work of the walks co-ordinators, leaders and other volunteers who make this possible. One of the highlights was a boat trip to the Plymouth Breakwater on a calm but eerily misty evening. Members also supported and enjoyed the South West Coast Path Anniversary walks in our area.

The social calendar has again been full of enjoyable events including our annual dinner at The Mission. In the summer we had a barbecue and the raffle at our “Last Supper” at the Fox Tor Cafe raised £66.00 for Devon Air Ambulance. Weekends away have been fewer this year but 2013 started with a successful first to celebrate the New Year at The Lizard Youth Hostel and in July members enjoyed 2 days of coastal walking staying at the hostel in Salcombe. More weekends are planned for the coming year – November kicks off with a long weekend in Swanage.

As in previous years our travellers have been visiting foreign parts. One group enjoyed a trip to Everest Base Camp and another braved rugged walking conditions in Norway. Closer to home another group spent a good week in The Lake District.

This year we used some of our funds to help with repairs to the South West Coast Path and to replace a stile with a more accessible gate at Cornwood on the Blatchford Estate. We have welcomed a healthy number of new walkers and our shorter Saturday walks have been well supported and will now be a regular feature of our walks programme.

The re-opening of the Hemerdon Mine is an interesting local project and our representatives have been involved in meetings to discuss diverting some of the rights of Way affected by this venture. We have also had representatives involved in discussions to bid for funds to restore the Plym Valley for the benefit of the city. Members have also been involved in footpath clearing sessions.

Sadly during this year we said goodbye to several of our longstanding members and friends. Ken Sadler died in August of this year. He and his wife Barbara have been members since 1987 and were well known leaders until a couple of years ago. In November of 2012 we mourned the sudden death of John Tidball. Although a member of Tavistock group he walked regularly with us and was a familiar figure disappearing off to look for letter boxes then re-appearing for lunch. He led many walks for us and in August Lynne, his widow, helped to co-ordinate a Tidders memorial walk on Dartmoor where a letter box was placed in his memory. Also in August Miriam Dodd died after battling a brain tumour. She and her husband Phillip were members in East Devon but walked frequently with us and had many good friends in our group.

The committee remains dedicated and hard working. This year we say goodbye to Janet Coleman (Chairman), Joy Topping (Membership Secretary) and Ann Priestley (Social Secretary). We welcome Peter Major as our new Chairman and Steve Whitney has taken on the Membership Secretary role.

Val Galer Group Secretary

(see photo inside back cover)

South Devon Group Considering the prevailing economic climate our group has had another successful year during which our group committee of ten has worked extremely hard to achieve our objectives. The continued success of our group is mainly due to the growing support of all of our members who, apart from regularly attending the walks, participate in most of our activities and social events. This enthusiasm is a major factor in encouraging the majority of our committee volunteers to seek re-election annually.

We remain focussed on our key principles of offering something for everyone, people of all ages, all abilities and needs, and people looking for fun and friendship through walking. Our aforementioned objectives take several routes. Firstly we promote active conservation and the protection of the countryside while secondly, we gear our activities to suit the needs of our membership. Finally we strive to give everyone the opportunity to learn more about the health benefits of regular walking.

Over the past year we introduced manageable five mile Tea Shop walks to support our aims and beliefs. They have proven to be a successful addition to an existing and widely varied walks programme.

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Plymouth and District Group This year we have again enjoyed a year full of interesting and varied walks, outings, holidays and weekends away. Our thanks go to the hard work of the walks co-ordinators, leaders and other volunteers who make this possible. One of the highlights was a boat trip to the Plymouth Breakwater on a calm but eerily misty evening. Members also supported and enjoyed the South West Coast Path Anniversary walks in our area.

The social calendar has again been full of enjoyable events including our annual dinner at The Mission. In the summer we had a barbecue and the raffle at our “Last Supper” at the Fox Tor Cafe raised £66.00 for Devon Air Ambulance. Weekends away have been fewer this year but 2013 started with a successful first to celebrate the New Year at The Lizard Youth Hostel and in July members enjoyed 2 days of coastal walking staying at the hostel in Salcombe. More weekends are planned for the coming year – November kicks off with a long weekend in Swanage.

As in previous years our travellers have been visiting foreign parts. One group enjoyed a trip to Everest Base Camp and another braved rugged walking conditions in Norway. Closer to home another group spent a good week in The Lake District.

This year we used some of our funds to help with repairs to the South West Coast Path and to replace a stile with a more accessible gate at Cornwood on the Blatchford Estate. We have welcomed a healthy number of new walkers and our shorter Saturday walks have been well supported and will now be a regular feature of our walks programme.

The re-opening of the Hemerdon Mine is an interesting local project and our representatives have been involved in meetings to discuss diverting some of the rights of Way affected by this venture. We have also had representatives involved in discussions to bid for funds to restore the Plym Valley for the benefit of the city. Members have also been involved in footpath clearing sessions.

Sadly during this year we said goodbye to several of our longstanding members and friends. Ken Sadler died in August of this year. He and his wife Barbara have been members since 1987 and were well known leaders until a couple of years ago. In November of 2012 we mourned the sudden death of John Tidball. Although a member of Tavistock group he walked regularly with us and was a familiar figure disappearing off to look for letter boxes then re-appearing for lunch. He led many walks for us and in August Lynne, his widow, helped to co-ordinate a Tidders memorial walk on Dartmoor where a letter box was placed in his memory. Also in August Miriam Dodd died after battling a brain tumour. She and her husband Phillip were members in East Devon but walked frequently with us and had many good friends in our group.

The committee remains dedicated and hard working. This year we say goodbye to Janet Coleman (Chairman), Joy Topping (Membership Secretary) and Ann Priestley (Social Secretary). We welcome Peter Major as our new Chairman and Steve Whitney has taken on the Membership Secretary role.

Val Galer Group Secretary

(see photo inside back cover)




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South Devon Group having a swinging time on the Gower Coast


South Devon Group

Considering the prevailing economic climate our group has had another successful year during which our group committee of ten has worked extremely hard to achieve our objectives. The continued success of our group is mainly due to the growing support of all of our members who, apart from regularly attending the walks, participate in most of our activities and social events. This enthusiasm is a major factor in encouraging the majority of our committee volunteers to seek re-election annually. We remain focussed on our key principles of offering something for everyone, people of all ages, all abilities and needs, and people looking for fun and friendship through walking. Our aforementioned objectives take several routes. Firstly we promote active conservation and the protection of the countryside while secondly, we gear our activities to suit the needs of our membership. Finally we strive to give everyone the opportunity to learn more about the health benefits of regular walking. Over the past year we introduced manageable five mile Tea Shop walks to support our aims and beliefs. They have proven to be a successful addition to an existing and widely varied walks programme. .

A slight increase in our membership has led to new walks leaders coming forward which helps to enhance our existing team. My thanks as always are extended to these individuals for the valuable time they forfeit to recce and then lead the walks. Volunteer back markers also perform a vital and important role and as such are worthy of commendation.

Sharon, our Secretary, continues to drive home new ideas relentlessly, having embarked us on a pledge to walk a million miles as a group. We both met with local MP Adrian Sanders for a broad based discussion on environmental issues including "One Coast for All" Our long standing Treasurer Celia ensures our finances are kept ship shape at all times. Alan continues to perform his role as Footpath Officer superbly leaving no stones unturned including organising working parties for Dartmoor clearance accompanied by one of their Rangers. Barbara works tirelessly on the website while Richard ensures a full and varied walks programme.

My thanks are extended also to our social and holiday working groups for providing us with some exiting new activities and for the excellent six day holiday on the Gower Coast last September. Walking under Sgwd y Eira ( Falling Snow) waterfall on the edge of the Brecons was as exhilarating as it was enchanting. As a group we are attempting to walk the entire Offa's Dyke Path bordering England and Wales. By the end of 2014 we hope to be at the half way stage of the 177 mile trail.

In addition to our own walks, the last three years has seen South Devon organise, recce and lead walks for Rambler groups visiting our area. Last year we entertained groups from the New Forest and Market Drayton.

With Health and Safety now high profile, several sets of High Viz Vests and two large First Aid Kits were purchased for use as and when required.

A decision was made over the year to withdraw our offer to finance a clapper bridge at Huntingdon Cross on Dartmoor due to poor responses and lack of action from the Dartmoor National Park Authority.

Plans are currently under review to promote the John Musgrave Heritage Trail once again during the summer of 2014.

Inevitably, there have been times of sadness during the year as several of our number have been lost to us. As well as offering our condolences we also remember to give thanks for all they have contributed to those around them and especially to our walking group.

It is my privilege to continue in the role of Group Chairman.

Bernard Parker Chairman

Tavistock Group Our group continues to put on walks most Saturdays and Sundays and some Thursday evenings during the summer. As always we are grateful to the band of leaders who are prepared to put in the work to lead these. We are, however, making a big effort to encourage new leaders with training and ‘buddying’ with a more experienced person for their initial walks. We are ensuring that training for leaders and First Aid are available every other year.

This year we have put on Walk Leader training days for women and men separately trying to encourage more female leaders and that seems to have worked well. We also are grateful to Peter Wright for organising a Walks Leaders Challenge with compass and map work in October at Sourton – an event muchenjoyed if at times frustrating! Walking holidays such as the one at Falmouth shown in the picture are quickly sold out. Another trip to the Yorkshire Dales is planned in June and there was a successful visit to the Isle of Wight in April.

The social calendar is well organised and supported. The annual dinner was held at The Terrace restaurant, Skittles at the Blacksmith Arms will have to have a limit on numbers next time, the Christmas tea was again held at the Lydford Nicholls Hall and a very successful BBQ was again held at Malcolm and Sarah’s at Yelverton. Coffee mornings at the Bedford Hotel and Ale supping at a variety of hostels, both on a monthly basis, have continued.

We all suffered an enormous shock at the sudden death of John Tidball whose enjoyment of letter-boxing added to any trip. Overall our numbers have remained stable at just under 160 with new joining and others leaving. We plan to make an effort with publicity this coming year with the aim to boost recruitment.

Finances are healthy while we receive the benefits of HF Holidays and Kountry Kit advertising and support from the Walking Partnership.

As a new Chair it has been good to receive the support of an excellent committee who ensure Ramblers in the Tavistock area is thriving. My thanks to them. Ian Gasper, Chairman


A slight increase in our membership has led to new walks leaders coming forward which helps to enhance our existing team. My thanks as always are extended to these individuals for the valuable time they forfeit to recce and then lead the walks. Volunteer back markers also perform a vital and important role and as such are worthy of commendation.

Sharon, our Secretary, continues to drive home new ideas relentlessly, having embarked us on a pledge to walk a million miles as a group. We both met with local MP Adrian Sanders for a broad based discussion on environmental issues including "One Coast for All" Our long standing Treasurer Celia ensures our finances are kept ship shape at all times. Alan continues to perform his role as Footpath Officer superbly leaving no stones unturned including organising working parties for Dartmoor clearance accompanied by one of their Rangers. Barbara works tirelessly on the website while Richard ensures a full and varied walks programme.

My thanks are extended also to our social and holiday working groups for providing us with some exiting new activities and for the excellent six day holiday on the Gower Coast last September. Walking under Sgwd y Eira ( Falling Snow) waterfall on the edge of the Brecons was as exhilarating as it was enchanting. As a group we are attempting to walk the entire Offa's Dyke Path bordering England and Wales. By the end of 2014 we hope to be at the half way stage of the 177 mile trail.

In addition to our own walks, the last three years has seen South Devon organise, recce and lead walks for Rambler groups visiting our area. Last year we entertained groups from the New Forest and Market Drayton.

With Health and Safety now high profile, several sets of High Viz Vests and two large First Aid Kits were purchased for use as and when required.

A decision was made over the year to withdraw our offer to finance a clapper bridge at Huntingdon Cross on Dartmoor due to poor responses and lack of action from the Dartmoor National Park Authority.

Plans are currently under review to promote the John Musgrave Heritage Trail once again during the summer of 2014.

Inevitably, there have been times of sadness during the year as several of our number have been lost to us. As well as offering our condolences we also remember to give thanks for all they have contributed to those around them and especially to our walking group.

It is my privilege to continue in the role of Group Chairman.

Bernard Parker Chairman

Tavistock Group Our group continues to put on walks most Saturdays and Sundays and some Thursday evenings during the summer. As always we are grateful to the band of leaders who are prepared to put in the work to lead these. We are, however, making a big effort to encourage new leaders with training and ‘buddying’ with a more experienced person for their initial walks. We are ensuring that training for leaders and First Aid are available every other year.

This year we have put on Walk Leader training days for women and men separately trying to encourage more female leaders and that seems to have worked well. We also are grateful to Peter Wright for organising a Walks Leaders Challenge with compass and map work in October at Sourton – an event muchenjoyed if at times frustrating! Walking holidays such as the one at Falmouth shown in the picture are quickly sold out. Another trip to the Yorkshire Dales is planned in June and there was a successful visit to the Isle of Wight in April.

The social calendar is well organised and supported. The annual dinner was held at The Terrace restaurant, Skittles at the Blacksmith Arms will have to have a limit on numbers next time, the Christmas tea was again held at the Lydford Nicholls Hall and a very successful BBQ was again held at Malcolm and Sarah’s at Yelverton. Coffee mornings at the Bedford Hotel and Ale supping at a variety of hostels, both on a monthly basis, have continued.

We all suffered an enormous shock at the sudden death of John Tidball whose enjoyment of letter-boxing added to any trip. Overall our numbers have remained stable at just under 160 with new joining and others leaving. We plan to make an effort with publicity this coming year with the aim to boost recruitment.

Finances are healthy while we receive the benefits of HF Holidays and Kountry Kit advertising and support from the Walking Partnership.

As a new Chair it has been good to receive the support of an excellent committee who ensure Ramblers in the Tavistock area is thriving. My thanks to them. Ian Gasper, Chairman


Tavistock Group Our group continue to put on walks most Saturdays and Sundays and some Thursday evenings during the summer. As always we are grateful to the band of leaders who are prepared to put in the work to lead these. We are, however, making a big effort to encourage new leaders with training and ‘buddying’ with a more experienced person for their initial walks. We are ensuring that training for leaders and First Aid are available every other year. This year we have put on Walk Leader training days for women and men separately trying to encourage more female leaders and that seems to have worked well. We also are grateful to Peter Wright for organising a Walks Leaders Challenge with compass and map work in October at Sourton – an event much enjoyed if at times frustrating! Walking holidays such as the one at Falmouth shown in the picture are quickly sold out. Another trip to the Yorkshire Dales is planned in June and there was a successful visit to the Isle of Wight in April. The social calendar is well organised and supported. The annual dinner was held at The Terrace restaurant, Skittles at the Blacksmith Arms will have to have a limit on numbers next time, the Christmas tea was again held at the Lydford Nicholls Hall and a very successful BBQ was again held at Malcolm and Sarah’s at Yelverton. Coffee mornings at the Bedford Hotel and Ale supping at a variety of hostels, both on a monthly basis, have continued. We all suffered an enormous shock at the sudden death of John Tidball whose enjoyment of letter-boxing added to any trip. Overall our numbers have remained stable at just under 160 with new joining and others leaving. We plan to make an effort with publicity this coming year with the aim to boost recruitment. Finances are healthy while we receive the benefits of HF Holidays and Kountry Kit advertising and support from the Walking Partnership. As a new Chair it has been good to receive the support of an excellent committee who ensure Ramblers in the Tavistock area is thriving. My thanks to them. Ian Gasper, Chairman

Tavistock Ramblers at Durgan, Cornwall

Teignmouth and Dawlish Group Our Group continues to flourish. Our main event this year was the launch of our new booklet “25 Walks around Teignmouth and Dawlish.** This is already selling extremely well – it is a beautiful glossy book with simple numbered instructions and maps that can be used by novice walkers. The walks vary between 2 and 5 miles.

We continue to enjoy good walking on Sundays (and summer evenings). Some of our members have “adopted” local paths and we report back to to our Footpath Officer - this year we have had few problems. He has commented on the Teignbridge Local Plan and he is our representative on the Teign Estuary Forum. Members of our Group represented Ramblers at the opening of the new cycle/footpath bridge across the River Teign between Kingsteignton and Newton Abbot and we are now pressing Devon County Council to continue the path to Teignmouth as promised.

Apart from rambling our Group have held social events, had a holiday in Chamonix, and we also have a popular Dinner Club and Book Club.

Anne McCallister Group Secretary

** Available from 21 Southdowns Road, Dawlish, EX7 0LB with cheque for £3.50 payable to Teignmouth and Dawlish Ramblers

Tiverton Group The past year has seen the Tiverton Group offer 99 walks, a decrease of four on the previous year. Sunday walks maintained an average of 12 walkers, while the weekday walks showed a slight reduction in numbers. We continue to encourage the walkers who prefer the longer weekend walks to mix with those who favour the shorter weekday walks, and again have held a short Saturday walk followed by lunch, with some former walkers enjoying the lunch and meeting old friends. Our Sunday walks are always followed by the famous Cream Tea, with the weekday walks including a pub lunch. Walking for Health has linked with Ramblers, and some weekday walks have been ‘Walk and Talk’ walks. To encourage these walkers to consider walking with and joining Ramblers, we have renamed the midweek group Wayfarers, as some perceive Ramblers to walk at a pace they would not manage.

As usual there has been a varied programme with some more distant walks exploring new territory, while others are nearer to home. Our walkers come from a widespread area as do the leaders, and have local knowledge of many areas within the region. We are increasingly aware of fuel prices and encourage car sharing, and try to have a balanced programme regarding distance travelled in order to keep our walks affordable for regular participants.

Our leaders continue to give their time to planning and leading the walks – we thank them for their dedication. Some key leaders have taken a break due to health issues, and the extra work put in by other leaders is appreciated. We hope to see them all in action next year. Many leaders as well as walkers are now trained in Basic First Aid, with another course planned. We have invested in Outdoor First Aid kits and manuals for those who have attended the course. Navigation courses are on the agenda also.

We are planning some short breaks and holiday over the next year, with a New Year break in Tenby, and possible breaks in Guernsey and the Isle of Wight in the early stages of planning. Socially we have run Skittles Nights, and an evening walk followed by supper, and our Christmas Dinner is planned.

Our finances are stable, and we continue to try to reduce costs by using email for communication where possible, and distributing paper copies by hand.

Many thanks to the officers and leaders who continue in their posts within the group, We also thank all walkers for their support and contribution towards making Tiverton ramblers a lively, adventurous and supportive group.

Teresa Smith Group Secretary


Teignmouth and Dawlish Group

Our Group continues to flourish. Our main event this year was the launch of our new booklet “25 Walks around Teignmouth and Dawlish.** This is already selling extremely well – it is a beautiful glossy book with simple numbered instructions and maps that can be used by novice walkers. The walks vary between 2 and 5 miles. We continue to enjoy good walking on Sundays (and summer evenings). Some of our members have “adopted” local paths and we report back to to our Footpath Officer - this year have had few problems. He has commented on the Teignbridge Local Plan and he is our representative on the Teign Estuary Forum. Members of our Group represented Ramblers at the opening of the new cycle/footpath bridge across the River Teign between Kingsteignton and Newton Abbot and we are now pressing Devon County Council to continue the path to Teignmouth as promised. Apart from rambling our Group have held social events, had a holiday in Chamonix, and we also have a popular Dinner Club and Book Club. Anne McCallister Group Secretary ** Available from 21 Southdowns Road, Dawlish, EX7 0LB with cheque for £3.50 payable to Teignmouth and Dawlish Ramblers

Teignmouth and Dawlish Group Our Group continues to flourish. Our main event this year was the launch of our new booklet “25 Walks around Teignmouth and Dawlish.** This is already selling extremely well – it is a beautiful glossy book with simple numbered instructions and maps that can be used by novice walkers. The walks vary between 2 and 5 miles.

We continue to enjoy good walking on Sundays (and summer evenings). Some of our members have “adopted” local paths and we report back to to our Footpath Officer - this year we have had few problems. He has commented on the Teignbridge Local Plan and he is our representative on the Teign Estuary Forum. Members of our Group represented Ramblers at the opening of the new cycle/footpath bridge across the River Teign between Kingsteignton and Newton Abbot and we are now pressing Devon County Council to continue the path to Teignmouth as promised.

Apart from rambling our Group have held social events, had a holiday in Chamonix, and we also have a popular Dinner Club and Book Club.

Anne McCallister Group Secretary

** Available from 21 Southdowns Road, Dawlish, EX7 0LB with cheque for £3.50 payable to Teignmouth and Dawlish Ramblers

Tiverton Group The past year has seen the Tiverton Group offer 99 walks, a decrease of four on the previous year. Sunday walks maintained an average of 12 walkers, while the weekday walks showed a slight reduction in numbers. We continue to encourage the walkers who prefer the longer weekend walks to mix with those who favour the shorter weekday walks, and again have held a short Saturday walk followed by lunch, with some former walkers enjoying the lunch and meeting old friends. Our Sunday walks are always followed by the famous Cream Tea, with the weekday walks including a pub lunch. Walking for Health has linked with Ramblers, and some weekday walks have been ‘Walk and Talk’ walks. To encourage these walkers to consider walking with and joining Ramblers, we have renamed the midweek group Wayfarers, as some perceive Ramblers to walk at a pace they would not manage.

As usual there has been a varied programme with some more distant walks exploring new territory, while others are nearer to home. Our walkers come from a widespread area as do the leaders, and have local knowledge of many areas within the region. We are increasingly aware of fuel prices and encourage car sharing, and try to have a balanced programme regarding distance travelled in order to keep our walks affordable for regular participants.

Our leaders continue to give their time to planning and leading the walks – we thank them for their dedication. Some key leaders have taken a break due to health issues, and the extra work put in by other leaders is appreciated. We hope to see them all in action next year. Many leaders as well as walkers are now trained in Basic First Aid, with another course planned. We have invested in Outdoor First Aid kits and manuals for those who have attended the course. Navigation courses are on the agenda also.

We are planning some short breaks and holiday over the next year, with a New Year break in Tenby, and possible breaks in Guernsey and the Isle of Wight in the early stages of planning. Socially we have run Skittles Nights, and an evening walk followed by supper, and our Christmas Dinner is planned.

Our finances are stable, and we continue to try to reduce costs by using email for communication where possible, and distributing paper copies by hand.

Many thanks to the officers and leaders who continue in their posts within the group, We also thank all walkers for their support and contribution towards making Tiverton ramblers a lively, adventurous and supportive group.

Teresa Smith Group Secretary


Tiverton Group

The past year has seen the Tiverton Group offer 99 walks, a decrease of four on the previous year. Sunday walks maintained an average of 12 walkers, while the weekday walks showed a slight reduction in numbers. We continue to encourage the walkers who prefer the longer weekend walks to mix with those who favour the shorter weekday walks, and again have held a short Saturday walk followed by lunch, with some former walkers enjoying the lunch and meeting old friends. Our Sunday walks are always followed by the famous Cream Tea, with the weekday walks including a pub lunch. Walking for Health has linked with Ramblers, and some weekday walks have been ‘Walk and Talk’ walks. To encourage these walkers to consider walking with and joining Ramblers, we have renamed the midweek group Wayfarers, as some perceive Ramblers to walk at a pace they would not manage. As usual there has been a varied programme with some more distant walks exploring new territory, while others are nearer to home. Our walkers come from a widespread area as do the leaders, and have local knowledge of many areas within the region. We are increasingly aware of fuel prices and encourage car sharing, and try to have a balanced programme regarding distance travelled in order to keep our walks affordable for regular participants. Our leaders continue to give their time to planning and leading the walks – we thank them for their dedication. Some key leaders have taken a break due to health issues, and the extra work put in by other leaders is appreciated. We hope to see them all in action next year. Many leaders as well as walkers are now trained in Basic First Aid, with another course planned. We have invested in Outdoor First Aid kits and manuals for those who have attended the course. Navigation courses are on the agenda also. We are planning some short breaks and holiday over the next year, with a New Year break in Tenby, and possible breaks in Guernsey and the Isle of Wight in the early stages of planning. Socially we have run Skittles Nights, and an evening walk followed by supper, and our Christmas Dinner is planned. Our finances are stable, and we continue to try to reduce costs by using email for communication where possible, and distributing paper copies by hand. Many thanks to the officers and leaders who continue in their posts within the group, We also thank all walkers for their support and contribution towards making Tiverton ramblers a lively, adventurous and supportive group. Teresa Smith Group Secretary

Tiverton Ramblers at Golden Cap

Totnes Group Once again we have enjoyed a very varied and interesting programme of walks in our beautiful area, traversing Dartmoor, the South West Coastal Path, the countryside and even, occasionally, towns ! We offer 2 mid-week walks, a shorter one (between 4—6 miles) and a longer walk ranging from 8 to over 9 miles. We also offer a Sunday walk averaging between 6—7 miles. We’ve managed to walk most weeks during the very wet and cold winter months, after which the summer sunshine was much appreciated. Some of our members also walked the West Mendip Way (just over 30 miles from Uphill to Wells). We are extremely grateful to all those members who lead walks, and also to everyone involved in compiling, preparing and distributing our programmes.

Thanks to our Footpath Officer, Jackie Fern, we are all kept informed about issues concerning our local footpaths. The extreme weather conditions this year have affected many routes, especially the South West Coastal Path. Several repairs to local paths were completed in the spring and, because of property development, one of the Totnes footpaths is to be diverted. Three of our members volunteered

to join working parties for footpath work on Dartmoor.

We have had a fantastic number of social events during the year, starting with a Christmas dinner and a Mince Pie walk in December, a Dutch supper in February, and a Safari walk in July. In June we had a day trip to Weymouth, which included walks for those who wanted them, and in August there was a Social Meal that was enjoyed by over 60 members and partners. A number of us also spent a happy few days at the Limpley Stoke Hotel near Bath. Our warm thanks must go to our hard-working Social Secretary, Val Coish, who arranged the events and who is already making exciting plans for next year. We are now looking forward to this year’s Christmas dinner and, meanwhile, a number of our members are going off to Switzerland to do some mountaineering. (Many thanks to Judy Fine who has arranged this).

We were privileged that our MP, Sarah Wollaston, joined us for what was a very muddy walk in January, followed by lunch at a local inn during which members had the opportunity to chat with Dr Wollaston and to express their views on turbines, solar arrays and funding. We thank all our members who walk every week come rain, come shine, and who contribute to the group in a multitude of different ways. We all look forward to another happy (and energetic !) year. Pat Hiller, Group Secretary


Totnes Group

Once again we have enjoyed a very varied and interesting programme of walks in our beautiful area, traversing Dartmoor, the South West Coastal Path, the countryside and even, occasionally, towns ! We offer 2 mid-week walks, a shorter one (between 4—6 miles) and a longer walk ranging from 8 to over 9 miles. We also offer a Sunday walk averaging between 6—7 miles. We’ve managed to walk most weeks during the very wet and cold winter months, after which the summer sunshine was much appreciated. Some of our members also walked the West Mendip Way (just over 30 miles from Uphill to Wells). We are extremely grateful to all those members who lead walks, and also to everyone involved in compiling, preparing and distributing our programmes.


to join working parties for footpath work on Dartmoor. We have had a fantastic number of social events during the year, starting with a Christmas dinner and a Mince Pie walk in December, a Dutch supper in February, and a Safari walk in July. In June we had a day trip to Weymouth, which included walks for those who wanted them, and in August there was a Social Meal that was enjoyed by over 60 members and partners. A number of us also spent a happy few days at the Limpley Stoke Hotel near Bath. Our warm thanks must go to our hard-working Social Secretary, Val Coish, who arranged the events and who is already making exciting plans for next year. We are now looking forward to this year’s Christmas dinner and, meanwhile, a number of our members are going off to Switzerland to do some mountaineering. (Many thanks to Judy Fine who has arranged this). We were privileged that our MP, Sarah Wollaston, joined us for what was a very muddy walk in January, followed by lunch at a local inn during which members had the opportunity to chat with Dr Wollaston and to express their views on turbines, solar arrays and funding. We thank all our members who walk every week come rain, come shine, and who contribute to the group in a multitude of different ways. We all look forward to another happy (and energetic !) year. Pat Hiller, Group Secretary

Totnes Ramblers at Shipley Bridge

Totnes Group Once again we have enjoyed a very varied and interesting programme of walks in our beautiful area, traversing Dartmoor, the South West Coastal Path, the countryside and even, occasionally, towns ! We offer 2 mid-week walks, a shorter one (between 4—6 miles) and a longer walk ranging from 8 to over 9 miles. We also offer a Sunday walk averaging between 6—7 miles. We’ve managed to walk most weeks during the very wet and cold winter months, after which the summer sunshine was much appreciated. Some of our members also walked the West Mendip Way (just over 30 miles from Uphill to Wells). We are extremely grateful to all those members who lead walks, and also to everyone involved in compiling, preparing and distributing our programmes.


to join working parties for footpath work on Dartmoor.

We have had a fantastic number of social events during the year, starting with a Christmas dinner and a Mince Pie walk in December, a Dutch supper in February, and a Safari walk in July. In June we had a day trip to Weymouth, which included walks for those who wanted them, and in August there was a Social Meal that was enjoyed by over 60 members and partners. A number of us also spent a happy few days at the Limpley Stoke Hotel near Bath. Our warm thanks must go to our hard-working Social Secretary, Val Coish, who arranged the events and who is already making exciting plans for next year. We are now looking forward to this year’s Christmas dinner and, meanwhile, a number of our members are going off to Switzerland to do some mountaineering. (Many thanks to Judy Fine who has arranged this).

We were privileged that our MP, Sarah Wollaston, joined us for what was a very muddy walk in January, followed by lunch at a local inn during which members had the opportunity to chat with Dr Wollaston and to express their views on turbines, solar arrays and funding. We thank all our members who walk every week come rain, come shine, and who contribute to the group in a multitude of different ways. We all look forward to another happy (and energetic !) year. Pat Hiller, Group Secretary

Group Contacts

Devon Bootlegs www.devonbootlegs.org [email protected]

East Devon James Baldwin 01297 23045 www.eastdevonramblers.org.uk [email protected]

Exeter & District Christine Ahleid 01392 496645 [email protected]

Moorland William Boughey 01647 221260 www.moorlandramblers.org.uk [email protected]

North Devon 01271 376274 www.northdevonramblers.co.uk Joan Long [email protected]

Plymouth & District 01752 700901 www.plymouthramblers.org.uk Val Galer [email protected]

South Devon www.southdevonramblers.com [email protected]

South Hams 01548 810761 Isobel Torrens [email protected]

Tavistock 01822 611304 www.tavistockramblers.org.uk Ian Gasper [email protected]

Teignmouth & Dawlish 01626 864046 www.teignramblers.org.uk Anne McCallister [email protected]

Tiverton 01823 673348 Teresa Smith [email protected]

Totnes www.totnesramblers.org.uk Pat Hiller [email protected]


Devon Bootlegswww.devonbootlegs.org [email protected]

East Devonwww.eastdevonramblers.org.uk James Baldwin

01297 [email protected]

Exeter & District Penny Amraoui01392 [email protected]

Moorland www.moorlandramblers.org.uk William Boughey


North Devonwww.northdevonramblers.co.uk Joan Long


Plymouth & Districtwww.plymouthramblers.org.uk Val Galer


South Devonwww.southdevonramblers.com Tessa Smith

01803 203564 [email protected]

South Hams Isobel Torrens01548 [email protected]

Tavistockwww.tavistockramblers.org.uk Ian Gasper


Teignmouth & Dawlishwww.teignramblers.org.uk Anne McCallister


Tiverton Teresa Smith01823 [email protected]

Totneswww.totnesramblers.co.uk Pat Hillier [email protected]

Area Officers (October 2012—September 2013)

Chairman Robert Woolcott The Lodge, 43 Seymour Road 01803 313430 Torquay, Devon TQ2 8PY [email protected]

Vice-Chairman John Howell 63 Higher Coombe Drive, 01626 879770 Teignmouth, Devon TQ14 9NL [email protected]

Secretary David Hinchliffe 14 Kensey Close 01803 297474 Torquay, Devon TQ1 3TW [email protected]

Treasurer George Coles * 24 de Tracey Park, Bovey Tracey 01626 830514 Newton Abbot, Devon TQ13 9QT [email protected]

Assistant Treasurer James Baldwin Beer Hill Cottage, Beer Hill 01297 23045 Seaton, Devon EX12 2QD [email protected]

Membership Secretary John Minshall Sunrise, Strete 01803 770300 Dartmouth, Devon TQ6 0RQ [email protected]

Footpath Secretary Jenny Worsfold 8B Whitnage Road, Sampford Peverell 01884 821805 Tiverton, Devon EX16 7BU [email protected]

Access Officer John Skinner 19 Leat Road, Roborough 01752 782454 Plymouth PL6 7AT [email protected]

Countryside Secretary Eileen Linfoot & Publicity Officer Blaydon Cottage, Blackborough 01884 266435

Cullompton EX15 2HJ [email protected]

News Editor Nick Savage [email protected]

Web Master Mike Long 12 Bradiford, Barnstaple 01271 376274 Devon EX31 4AD [email protected]

* George Coles will retire at the 2014 AGM.

WALKING EXPERTS TO SERVE

WALKING ENTHUSIASTS

SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT TO MEET

ALL WEATHERS

MOORLAND RAMBLER 148/149 Fore Street, Exeter

Tel. 01392 432681 www. moorland-rambler.co.uk

Stockists Of All Leading Brands Your Leisure - Our Pleasure

Plymouth Ramblers at Lanlavery Rock


Chairman Robert WoolcottThe Lodge, 43 Seymour Drive, Torquay, Devon TQ2 8PY


Vice Chairman John Howell63 Higher Coombe Drive, Teignmouth, Devon TQ14 9NL


Secretary David Hinchliffe14 Kensey Close, Torquay, Devon TQ1 3TW


Treasurer George Coles*24 de Tracey Park, Bovey Tracey, Newton Abbot, Devon TQ13 9QT


Assistant Treasurer James BaldwinBeer Hill Cottage, Beer Hill, Seaton, Devon EX12 2QD,


Membership Secretary John MinshallSunrise, Strete, Dartmouth, Devon TQ6 0RQ


Footpath Secretary Jenny Worsfold8B Whitnage Road, Sampford Peverell, Tiverton, Devon EX16 7BU


Access Officer John Skinner19 Leat Road, Roborough, Plymouth PL6 7AT


Countryside Secretary & Publicity Officer

Eileen Linfoot Blaydon Cottage, Blackborough, Cullompton EX15 2HJ



Web Master Mike Long12 Bradiford, Barnstaple,Devon EX31 4AD



Area Officers (October 2012—September 2013)

Chairman Robert Woolcott The Lodge, 43 Seymour Road 01803 313430 Torquay, Devon TQ2 8PY [email protected]

Vice-Chairman John Howell 63 Higher Coombe Drive, 01626 879770 Teignmouth, Devon TQ14 9NL [email protected]

Secretary David Hinchliffe 14 Kensey Close 01803 297474 Torquay, Devon TQ1 3TW [email protected]

Treasurer George Coles * 24 de Tracey Park, Bovey Tracey 01626 830514 Newton Abbot, Devon TQ13 9QT [email protected]

Assistant Treasurer James Baldwin Beer Hill Cottage, Beer Hill 01297 23045 Seaton, Devon EX12 2QD [email protected]

Membership Secretary John Minshall Sunrise, Strete 01803 770300 Dartmouth, Devon TQ6 0RQ [email protected]

Footpath Secretary Jenny Worsfold 8B Whitnage Road, Sampford Peverell 01884 821805 Tiverton, Devon EX16 7BU [email protected]

Access Officer John Skinner 19 Leat Road, Roborough 01752 782454 Plymouth PL6 7AT [email protected]

Countryside Secretary Eileen Linfoot & Publicity Officer Blaydon Cottage, Blackborough 01884 266435

Cullompton EX15 2HJ [email protected]


Web Master Mike Long 12 Bradiford, Barnstaple 01271 376274 Devon EX31 4AD [email protected]


WALKING EXPERTS TO SERVE

WALKING ENTHUSIASTS

SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT TO MEET

ALL WEATHERS

MOORLAND RAMBLER 148/149 Fore Street, Exeter

Tel. 01392 432681 www. moorland-rambler.co.uk

Stockists Of All Leading Brands Your Leisure - Our Pleasure

Plymouth Ramblers at Lanlavery Rock



News Editor’s Report The digital version of Area News is going strong with no cost to the organisation. As well as regular updates from Teignmouth and Dawlish on their walks, this year we have had reports on: the campaign for access at Meldon reservoir; the Ramblers' annual national meeting; a report from North Devon Ramblers on their meeting with Nick Harvey, MP for North Devon to discuss cuts in the footpath budget and a guest spot for the Otter Trail campaign. These are all still available on the blog at: http://devonramblersnews.blogspot.co.uk/. New items about Ramblers success stories, ongoing campaigns and other news are very welcome. Please email the text to [email protected]. A photo helps to add interest to a story - just attach one or more photos to your email.


News Editor’s Report The digital version of Area News is going strong with no cost to the organisation. As well as regular updates from Teignmouth and Dawlish on their walks, this year we have had reports on: the campaign for access at Meldon reservoir; the Ramblers' annual national meeting; a report from North Devon Ramblers on their meeting with Nick Harvey, MP for North Devon to discuss cuts in the footpath budget and a guest spot for the Otter Trail campaign. These are all still available on the blog at: http://devonramblersnews.blogspot.co.uk/. New items about Ramblers success stories, ongoing campaigns and other news are very welcome. Please email the text to [email protected]. A photo helps to add interest to a story - just attach one or more photos to your email.


Documents

THE RAMBLERS/media/LBS/Area And Group Pages... · 2017. 12. 8. · Annual General Meeting Saturday 15th February 2014 The 45th Annual General Meeting of the Devon Area of the Ramblers’