CASTLE BROMWICH GROUP OF THE
RAMBLERS
Registered Charity No.1093577
NEWSLETTER
No.105 WINTER
2019
Editor: Allan Witherington E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 01827 873506
WATER WATER EVERYWHERE
What an incredibly soggy Autumn
that was! On many
of our walks we
had to bravely
negotiate lakes of
water where paths
used to be; on
others we had to
relocate the walk to
safer areas and a
few walks had to be cancelled altogether. But we
always had a laugh as we slid along in the mud
and reaped the benefit of
our investment in quality
waterproofs. Thanks to
everyone who turned out
in sometimes less than
ideal conditions. Finally,
as Autumn transitioned
into Winter we had a
lovely sunny walk that
displayed the fallen
leaves at their best.
A.G.M. (15th October 2019)
David reported on another successful year for the
group with its variety of walks, holidays and social
events. Currently we have 83 members, a good
proportion of whom become actively involved.
Tony is standing down from the committee and
we thank him for his contribution over the years.
Other committee members were re-elected for
another year. After the business was complete
we enjoyed a drink and a buffet whilst grappling
with questions in a mini-quiz. Once again we owe
a massive debt of gratitude to David who
continues to lead the group with his characteristic
enthusiasm and thoroughness.
BARMOUTH WEEKEND (20th-23rd Sept. 2019)
As 18 of us
gathered at the
Min-y-Mor Hotel
on the seafront in
Barmouth there
was not a cloud to
be seen in the sky.
Our initial walk took us to view the old town from
the hills above. On Saturday we boarded a train
to travel south to Llwyngwril, and then walked the
7.5 mile return journey along the coastal path with
its magnificent views over Cardigan Bay.
On Sunday we set out from Tal-y-Bont to the
beach near Dyffryn Seaside Estate where we
encountered hundreds of jellyfish before moving
inland to Dyffryn Ardudwy
with its 5000 year old
burial chambers. We
descended from the
hillside along the
picturesque banks of the
River Ysgethin to take refreshment at
The Ysgethin Inn. On our last night in
the hotel everyone joined in the
Grand Darts Challenge which
resulted in much merriment but little
development of darting skills. Before
our journey home, the weekend was
rounded off with a 4 mile walk through woodland
and a disused railway track at Penmaenpool.
Thanks to Geoff and Diane for another superbly
organised holiday, and for their considerate
leading of a good variety of walks. This was a
good example of how to tackle hilly walks, taking
time with a number of breaks, ensuring slower
walkers weren’t rushed, whilst allowing faster
walkers to go at a pace comfortable to them.
TERESA’S TIPS
Offer your old Walk magazines to your
doctor’s surgery for the waiting room.
Ask if they would display one of our
advertising leaflets on their noticeboard.
Hmmm …time for a detour
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NEW WALK LEADERS WANTED
We are very fortunate that so many members play
their part by leading walks. Thanks to all who do
so. However, we are always looking to boost
the number of leaders to ensure we have a full
programme and that the responsibility is spread.
If YOU haven’t yet led a walk, please consider
doing so. Why not pair up with a friend, as walks
can be led by 2, or more. A number of
experienced leaders will be willing to help you
with suggestions of where to walk and going on
reccies with you. I have a list of suggested
locations and in some cases printed directions for
walks, or you can find them on the internet.
Go on give it a go, it can be very satisfying.
David
WALKING HOLIDAYS 2020
We have booked walking holidays based at
Llandudno in May (1st-4th) and at Bournemouth in
September (18th-21st). REMINDER – final
payment for Llandudno should be sent to
Cherie by 31st January (Cheques payable to
‘For Friends of Castle Bromwich Ramblers’).
Invitations for Bournemouth will probably be
issued in February. Thanks again to Cherie for
finding and booking the hotels and for carrying
out the administration for both of these trips. I will
be organising the walks and will be going to
Llandudno in March and to Bournemouth in July
or August to carry out reccies. If anyone is
willing to help with these please let me know.
It would probably involve a couple of nights stay
for each trip. Travel expenses can be claimed.
David
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Two members of the Committee
recently attended a meeting called to
promote happy and healthy lifestyles in
the local area. An offer has been made to
lead monthly local community walks (in
addition to our more wide ranging ones)
starting from various community hubs. A
launch day, perhaps involving a Fun Walk
is to be planned for the summer.
Also, up to 10 members are soon to record their
voices at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire as
part of the Twelve Tones project which will make
up the ‘soundscape’ of Station Clock, a large
scale sonic public artwork that will be installed at
the new HS2 Curzon St. Station. Contact David if
you would like to be involved.
CHILDREN IN NEED
Cherie and Gail organised
a collection on their walk at
Wistow on October 6th in
aid of the Countryfile
Rambles appeal for
Children in Need. A letter
of thanks and a certificate
were received from the
BBC. Thanks to all
contributors.
CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS
Rather than sending Christmas cards to each
other, members are encouraged to make a
donation to our chosen charity. A collection will be
taken at the Christmas Lunch on 15th December.
34 members have booked for this meal at
Maxstoke Park Golf Club. Please arrive around
1.00 pm for the 1.30 pm meal.
Why not join us to work off those festive season
excesses on these forthcoming walks:
Sunday 29th December at Monkspath led by Allan
Sunday 5th January at Fillongley led by David & Geoff
AUTUMN VAPOURS
As we return to natural time
And gain for sleep an hour – one,
Swirling clouds of steam
Rise to greet the Autumn sun.
Smouldering slowly up
From rows of timber pallasades,
Recalling busy kitchen
Or loco shed of earlier age.
This welcome brightness does combat
The damp and gloom of days just past.
In place of glowering clouds,
The sky is blue at last.
Inspired by a rare bright morning as the clocks
went back
The Bard of Babbs Mill, October 2019
FOR SALE Pair of Berghaus boots - size 9,
good condition, original price £120, going for
£50 ono. Proceeds will go to club funds.
Contact David 0121 788 0650