The Walkers Group offers everyone the chance to enjoy a walk every Tuesday, in the neighbouring countryside e.g. Wye Valley, Forest of Dean, as well as local walks around Caldicot.

After a walk the groups usually go to a local pub or inn for lunch. Occasionally, all-day trips are also arranged, to places further away e.g. The Gower, Hereford.

Currently three groups walk every week, see details below. Each group has a convenor. The groups meet at the Choir Hall car park, Caldicot every Tuesday at 9 to 9.30m, to organise car sharing to the starting place for the walk that day.

A programme of walks for each group is published every three months, showing where the walks are and the arrangements for lunch.

Details of the groups are as follows:

Convenor Jim Clift: Distance 4 to 7 miles: "Moderate & Strenuous"
Leave car park at 9.15am.
(This group will aim for a brisker walk)

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Convenor Sue Shepherd: Distance Distance 4 to 5.5 miles: "Moderate"
Leave car park at 9.20am.

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Convenors Avril Somersall & Fran Green: Distance 3 to 4 miles: "Easy & Moderate"
Leave car park at 9.30am.

 

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Stragglers Walking Group, Biblins Walk, 1st November 2011.

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our Biblins Walk

Photographs taken by Adrian and Glenice Dallow and Jenny King.

We started our walk at The Old Court Hotel, Symonds Yat on a lovely warm sunny morning walking through the meadow to the Olde Ferry Hotel, where we had a choice of walks. 

Adrian and Glenice led the walk into the woods above the River Wye and Peter & Norma led a linear walk along the banks of the river.  

The autumn colours of the woodlands were brilliant, especially against the rocks of the hills rising from the valley on either side of the river.  

We all met again for our coffee break near the Biblins Chain Bridge, which is the venue for many Scout groups for Adventure breaks. 

We divided again with those who wished to return via the riverside walk and those more adventurous who walked over the bridge and walked back along the other side of the river. 

This track was once the railway track from Monmouth to Ross.  At the Saracens Head we crossed the River again, this time by the ancient hand-pull ferry. 

We re-traced our steps past the Olde Ferry Hotel to the Old Court Hotel where a delicious lunch awaited us. Everyone was pleased with the walk in this beautiful area on such a lovely November morning.

Glenice Dallow

 

 

Walking Group Holiday to Caernarfon

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our
Walking Group Holiday to Caernarfon

Slideshow photographs taken by Delma Jones

Mighty Caernarfon is possibly the most famous of Wales's castles. Its sheer scale and commanding presence easily set it apart from the rest, and to this day, still trumpet in no uncertain terms the intention of its builder Edward I.

Begun in 1283 as the definitive chapter in his conquest of Wales, Caernarfon was constructed not only as a military stronghold but also as a seat of government and royal palace.

The castle's majestic persona is no architectural accident: it was designed to echo the walls of Constantinople, the imperial power of Rome and the dream castle, 'the fairest that ever man saw', of Welsh myth and legend. After all these years Caernarfon's immense strength remains unchanged.

Standing at the mouth of the Seiont river, the fortress (with its unique polygonal towers, intimidating battlements and colour banded masonry) dominates the walled town also founded by Edward I. Caernarfon's symbolic status was emphasized when Edward made sure that his son, the first English Prince of Wales, was born here in 1284. In 1969, the castle gained worldwide fame as the setting for the Investiture of Prince Charles as Prince of Wales.

 

Minister opened the Chepstow to Blackrock coastal path

Welsh Government Minister, John Griffiths AM opened
the Chepstow to Blackrock section of the Wales Coast
Path in Chepstow on Monday, 19th September 2011.
This 9.5km stretch leaves the historic town of Chepstow to meet the Severn Estuary, following the sea defence wall to Monmouthshire County Council's picnic site at Blackrock, near Portskewett.

 

The official opening took place at 11.30am at Chepstow's bandstand on the banks of the Wye.

The Wales Coast Path starts near the Old Town Bridge, Chepstow and finishes 850 miles (1,370 km) away at Queensferry in the north. Completion of the entire 850 miles is scheduled for May 2012.

Over the last four years Monmouthshire County Council has been making improvements to rights of way on or near to the coast with funding from the Welsh Government's Coastal Access Improvement Programme administered by the Countryside Council for Wales.

Crucial to the sustainability of the project are the voluntary coast path wardens who regularly check the path to keep it clear of vegetation and litter, report problems and undertake minor repair work.

Two stones bearing the coast path logo at Chepstow will mark the official start point. One is of local pennant sandstone donated by Forest of Dean Stone Firms Ltd and its partner is a piece of halkyn marble donated by Cemex and Flintshire CC.

Similar stones will stand at Queensferry. In a joint project with Monmouthshire's Countryside Access Team and adventa (Monmouthshire's Rural development programme), an artist will be commissioned to enhance the area around the stones at Chepstow to create an iconic gateway to both the start of the Coast Path and its link to Offa's Dyke Path National Trail.

The local AM and various other dignitaries were opening up the coastal path from Chepstow. Brenda Buckley our PRO spoke to a few in U3A and they all agreed that we should participate as U3A. Member later walked from Chepstow to Blackrock on the new path.

Photos of our members at the opening of the Chepstow to Blackrock coastal path

*please click on the images above to access larger photographs

 

Stragglers walk to Kymin, Round Tower and Naval Temple
on Tuesday 23rd August 2011

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our visit to Kymin, Round Tower and Naval Temple

Photo's were taken by two new walkers - Brian Taylor and Les Mitchell.

Despite the doom and gloom of the weather forecasters 25 Stragglers set off for a walk up to the Kymin for a picnic lunch.  We started our walk from the Coleford - Monmouth road passing through Beulieu wood onto field overlooking upper part of Monmouth towards Osbaston. 

Then came the strenuous part of the walk which was completed after many stops to admire the view, overlooking Monmouth and through the rocks and trees which were admired for their interesting formations.  However it was all worth the effort to arrive at the top with the sun shining on magnificent view of Monmouth and the surrounding hills.  It used to be claimed that nine counties could been seen from here.

We had a leisurely picnic lunch in warm sunshine and time to admire the Round House, which was built in 1793 by a group of Monmouth gentlemen as a venue for holding weekly meetings with a banqueting room.  Lord Nelson visited the Round House where he together with Sir William and Lady Hamilton had breakfast in 1802.

We left the Kymin passing the Naval Temple constructed in 1800 follwing the anniversary of Battle of the Nile in appreciation of 16 admirals who had won important victories during the 18th century. Medallions cam be seen commorating the admirals and the dates of the victories with which they were associated. 

The monument is now undergoing some much needed TLC with renovation taking place.  Our descent took us along the Offa's dyke path for a short distance before crossing fields and this time overlooking the Forest of Dean. We thankfully returned to cars after a pleasant walk and picnic.

Glenice Dallow

 

Strollers Walk around Grey Hill 26th July 2011.

*please click the image below to access larger photographs

Photo's taken yesterday by Ken Payne

Gray Hill (Welsh: Mynydd Llwyd) is a hill immediately to the north of the village of Llanvair Discoed, Monmouthshire, south east Wales.

Gray Hill is well known locally for its prehistoric remains which include standing stones, a stone circle at a height of about 900 feet above sea level and overlooking the Severn Estuary, as well as cairns, field boundaries and enclosures including a D-shaped Neolithic or Bronze Age enclosure. The stone circle is approximately 32 feet in diameter and has been dated to the Bronze Age, circa 4000 years ago.

 

Strollers Walk

Cold Ashton & St Catherine’s Valley ( South Gloucestershire)

please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our visit to Cold Ashton &
St Catherine’s Valley

Photographs by Margaret Kennedy

The group set out across the bridge for walk in the lush South Gloucestershire countryside. The walk was longer than usual ( approx 8.5miles), and had featured some years ago in the Telegraph Travel, but well worth the effort, with spectacular views across the valleys towards Bath.

The group was joined on the walk by Margaret, a visitor from Vancouver Canada, who not only enjoyed the walk but was very impressed by the concept of the U3A ( they don’t have it over there) and the friendliness of everyone.

Telegraph Travel website link: www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/activityandadventure/walkingholidays/2969758/Cold-Ashton-and-St-Catherines-Valley-Gloucestershire-Walk-of-the-month.html

 

28th June Walkers’ Annual Outing- Brecon National Park

At the AGM earlier this year the Committee asked members for suggestions for the annual outing, and Wendy White came forward with the suggestion of a trip on the Brecon Mountain Railway and a walk in the Brecon National Park.

This was agreed and subsequently proved to be a very popular with 94 walkers putting their name down to go. Because of the large numbers, it was agreed that there would be three separate walks and a small group went beforehand to check out the walks etc.

Thankfully the weather was kind and a great time was had by all.

A write up from each group follows below.

Stragglers Walk led by Glenice & Adrian

Tuesday 28th June dawned fine and, when the combined walking groups of the Caldicot & District U3A assembled at Caldicot pick-up point for the trip to the Brecon Mountain Railway.  The excitement and chatter at the early time of 8.30 am augured well for a pleasant day ahead.  The group of over ninety people boarded the two coaches with the remainder joining at Undy.

After an enjoyable journey via Raglan and Abergavenny we alighted at the Railway Terminus situated above Merthyr Tydfil in time for morning coffee, thence to join the train at 11.00 am.  The railway runs about North/South following the Pen-twyn reservoir on a narrow gauge track.

Some of us went to inspect the steam engine and found a well kept locomotive which has been built in the USA at Cleveland Ohio in 1930.  She was painted black and the connecting and piston rods of bright steel absolutely shone, sitting in front of the funnel was a large boxlike searchlight very much in keeping with her larger American sisters of that period.

It was at this point that one of our members went missing but was soon located on the engine footplate offering to ‘fire’ the engine on its journey North.  Ron Prettyjohn is still an active fireman at Lydney and though in his eighties can still maintain steam with the best of them!  Off we went, the journey was very smooth and the smell of steam and coal (though Russian) very evocative of earlier days.

We disembarked further along the tracks and here the three groups split up to follow their various walks.  Whilst walking along the track besides the reservoir and rail track the engines steam whistle could occasionally be heard producing a perfect echo in the woods across the reservoir.  We of the Straggler group partook of our picnic at the head of the reservoir amid woodland and splendid views of this sheet of blue water absolutely spectacular.

All too soon we rejoined the train after availing ourselves of much needed ice cream.

A very pleasant and enjoyable day and our thanks to Glenice and team for all the effort of organising such a nice outing.

Tony Jackson

please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our visit to Brecon

Slideshow photogapth taken by David Buckley, Jenny King, Glenice and Adrian Dallow

Strollers: Led by Sue & Pam

At 8.45 dozens of U3A walkers assembled ar Mill Lane, clutching picnics, suncream and insect repellent.  Equipped for every event, we waited for our coach like excited schoolchildren.

The sun shone and we enjoyed the scenic drive up the Heads of the valley road to the highest point and then on to Merthyr to ride on the Brecon Mountain railway. We gathered for refreshments at Pant Station before steaming our way alongside the Taf Fechan reservoir.

Leaving Pontsticill station, we set off through the Fawr Geopark. This 5 ½ mile walk took us past woodlands with banks of ferns, moss and wild flowers, including wild orchids, and we could glimpse the reservoir and spectacular mountain peaks at every turn.  We picnicked at the waters edge watching fishermen and canoes on the water and U3A members skimming stones like pros.

All too soon, we had to make our way back to the station for essential icecream and to board the busy train. For a lucky few, who got to ride in the caboose next to the engine, we listened in awe, as our very own train driver, Ron Prettyjohn, swapped technical knowledge with the driver of our steam engine and his guard. The guard said that the caboose was just a posh word for guards van and not to be outdone the driver gave us these invaluable tips. :-
If you put your beefburger and bun on the hotplate at Pant station, it will be ready when you reach the top station, and if you can give the engine some welly on the way back it can get up to 15 mph.

On behalf of everyone who enjoyed this trip, we would like to say Thank You to the organisers for a wonderful day out, and look forward to many more ……. Please!

Sonia Baker

Striders: Led by Wendy

An unusually larger group of 37 striders left Pontsticill station and joined the well known Taff Trail heading south.  We saw the very high dam built in 1927 (for only 1.5 million pounds) which created the reservoir.  This man made lake is about 2.5 miles long and provides 16 million gallons of water every day.

The easy walking on the level soon ceased as an abrupt left turn led us north up a steep slope for the next half mile.  Frequent stops were taken, nominally for photographs but also providing a recovery for the lungs.  We all admired the excellent views across the lake towards the distant ridge of major peaks of the Brecon Beacons, to be walked on another day. 

The walk continued across the moors and then on a path through a coniferous forest to a track by the lake side.  A left turn then led along a track and road back to the station and well earned ice creams for all.  A good day in magnificent scenery was enjoyed by all.

David Barradel

 

The Brecon Mountain Railway one of the most popular
railways in Wales

Travel in one of our all-weather observation coaches behind a vintage steam locomotive through beautiful scenery into the Brecon Beacons National Park along the full length of the Taf Fechan Reservoir to Dol-y-Gaer on one of the most popular railways in Wales.

At Pontsticill you can alight from the train and visit the Cafe, admire the view across the water to the peaks of the Brecon Beacons, and go for a ramble alongside the reservoir. There is a play area here for children.

On your return to Pant, visit our workshop where old steam locomotives are repaired - follow the footpath to a picnic site which has an amazing panoramic view of the valley. Visit our Licensed Tearooms and buy a souvenir of your visit in our shop.

website link: www.breconmountainrailway.co.uk

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 We do have perfect Summer days!

please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our visit to Gower

Slideshow photogapth taken by Sue Shepherd

On Tuesday June 14th as we boarded our coach to the Gower, the members of the Strollers walking group declared "What a beautiful day ! "  It was warm , sunny and not a hint of rain. 

We were to say the same throughout the day, as we enjoyed our lovely walk from the Gower Heritage Centre near Three Cliffs Bay, up a gentle incline through the woods until we came to open scenery, and after a short steeper slope arrived at a wonderful viewpoint.  From there we looked down on Oxwich Bay, and could see almost the whole of the Gower Peninsular, and as far as Pen Y Fan and the Devon coast.

After enjoying our picnic lunches we walked down to Three Cliffs Bay, where we spent an hour , some sleeping (?) on the sand while others paddled in the warm sea with gentle waves bringing in a few jelly fish, who fortunately behaved themselves.  As we reluctantly walked back towards the Heritage Centre to return home, we posed on the stepping stones, avoided a lively herd of cattle who were in a hurry to get to the beach, and looked up at the ruins of an old castle.  We enjoyed refreshments in the Centre, then sadly said goodbye for another few months to the Gower. Two unanswerable quizzes on our journey to and from the Gower, arranged by Sue, added  a bit of spice to the day!

Thank you so much, John and Wendy, Rob and Judy, for organising such a lovely trip.  It really was a perfect summer day, a good walk, sun, sand, fun and friendship.

Coralie 

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Strollers Walking Group - Fownhope Walk

please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our Fownhope visit

 

Photographs by Rosemary Brown

Fownhope is a Herefordshire village nestling between the meandering River Wye to the west and the limestone hulk of the Woolhope Dome to the east. From the higher ground to the east there are splendid views over the Wye, lush, alluvial pastures grazed by sheep, ploughed fields, pebble beaches and the sun glinting on the gentle, running water. 

During the spring the wild cherry blossom covers the hill leading to the Iron Age hill fort of Cherry Hill. Whatever the time of year, Fownhope welcomes you to some of the best scenery in the County. An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with wonderful walks, excellent accommodation and good places to eat. Why not spend a few days here and share with us this wonderful village and surrounding countryside.

Walks in Fownhope and the Surrounding Area - website link: www.fownhope.org.uk

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Striders Walking Group - Redbrook Walk.

please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our Redbrook Walk 

Slideshow photographs by David Buckley

Stridders walk from Redbrook lead by Janet Finchett and Val Davies
This walk was about 8 miles with a picnic stop. Wonderful views of the Wye Valley.

Redbrook is a village in Gloucestershire, adjoining the border with Monmouthshire. It is located on the River Wye and is within the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Redbrook was historically an important industrial centre with many industrial sites including mills, an ironworks, tinplate works and copper works. The oldest site is the King's Mill, which was a corn mill first recorded in 1434 and which remained in use until 1925.

The Redbrook Copper Works used ore brought from Cornwall via Chepstow and worked until 1740 when it closed down and the buildings were leased for the manufacturer of tinplate. It is from this iron ore that the village got its name - the brook running down the valley through the village often ran dark red.

The tinplate factory, run by the Redbrook Tinplate Company, was world famous for the high quality product it made and did not close until 1962. Redbrook was also a river port where the various products of the local industries were shipped.

The village once boasted no less than 13 Inns and three breweries. The last brewery to close, in 1926, was Redbrook Brewery and the site is still marked by Brewery Yard and Brewery Terrace.

Redbrook was the last station before Monmouth on the Wye Valley Railway. The railway was opened in 1876 to connect Monmouth to the South Wales line, closing to passengers in 1959 and freight in 1964. Today a wood-decked footbridge spans the river which once carried the railway.

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Strollers Walking Group - Bertholey House Walk

please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our Bertholey House Walk 

Photographs were taken by Rosemary Brown

Bertholey is situated in a quiet park with wonderful views over a loop in the river Usk. It was rebuilt circa 1790 - the cause of the initial dereliction in 1905 as often the case, a fire. A relative of the owner, drunk, accidentally set fire to the house. It had been left a shell since then.

Bertholey House as in recent times been restored

Stragglers walk Great Barnetts Wood & Mounton

please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our Great Barnetts Wood & Mounton Walk 

photos taken by Glenice and Adrian Dallow.

On Tuesday 26th April we started our walk in Great Barnetts Wood on paths bordered with wild garlic with the smell and display of bluebells as a backdrop through the wood. 

After a couple of fields we arrived in Bayfield following a single track road towards Mounton house and then fields to village of Mounton, there was a beautiful display of many wild Spring flowers including primroses, cowslips, violets, yellow rattle nettle,vetch and many many more. 

After coffee break what a sight awaited us as we passed the Church, the ancient handerchief tree brought to Mounton over 150 years ago with its dazzling display of white bracts hanging just like a handkerchieves. 

We then re-entered the wood with its paths bordered by wild garlic to see a carpet of the true blue of the British bluebell.  This is a beautiful Spring walk with the bluebells at their very best.  Thank you Norma & Peter.  

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Stragglers Walking Group Daffodil Walk Oxenhall on 29th March 2011

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our Daffodil Walk Oxenhall Walk

photos taken by Glenice and Adrian Dallow.

We left Mill Lane on time just as it was beginning to rain – Derek (weather man) wrong again but we are optimistic it will not be too bad.

Our driver took us to the Coldra to Monmouth and onto Newent to Oxenhall. We arrived at the Parish Hall to be greeted by the ladies from the Church who led the walks and provided the food.  They were very friendly and made us welcome.

After coffee and biscuits we reached the Shaw Common Wood after a short bus ride and a change into our walking boots.  Our walk through Hay Wood and Greenaways to Gwen & Vera’ fields took us through the carpets of daffodils and anemones which made a lovely contrast.

Then it was back to the hall for home-made soup and fruit crumble and custard, some of us enjoying seconds.

After lunch it was raining heavy so it was a quick dash to visit the Church which was well worth a visit, with its beautifully embroidered altar cloth and kneelers.

Our return journey was back through Forest of Dean which was very enjoyable and another super day.

A big thank you to Glenice for arranging this coach trip.

A grateful walker.

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Stragglers Walking Group, Trellech Walk on 22nd March 2011

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our Beacon Walk

photos taken by Glenice and Adrian Dallow.

On 22nd March the Stragglers walked from Trellech Beacon Car Park.  After turning from the fabulous view over Trellech towards the Brecon Beacons we descended across an area being reclaimed as heathland. 

Four Welsh mountain ponies are helping with this by grazing the land, they were also happy to greet our group and pose for photographs.  After more stunning views over the Malvern Hill’s, May Hill, and the Cotswold ridge we joined the Wye Valley Walk and the path was lined with old stone walls and it is suggested this is the way William Wordsworth came when he walked in the Wye Valley.

We took our coffee break at the Cleddon Falls and then started our return walk via Cleddon Hall, the birthplace of Bertrand Russell.  Climbing steadily uphill we passed a wildlife pond and some single dead trees left to provide song posts for the nightjars before turning back through the heathland to return to our cars and onward to lunch at the Huntsman.

Norma Shreeve

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March 29th 2011, Striders Walk to St Lythan's Burial Chamber

This weeks walk was was through interesting countryside around Wenvoe and organised by Wendy White and Dorothy Sherrington.

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our
St Lythan's Burial Chamber Walk

Photographs by David Buckley

St Lythan's Burial Chamber stands alone in a large field down a country road near Wenvoe.

With its mighty and massive capstone this megalithic monument is easy to see from the road that passes it. It is just as easy to stop and walk across the grass to see it close up.

There is a small parking spot alongside a kissing-gate entrance to the field. Often you will find no one else there, and impressive as the St Lythan's Burial Chamber is many Cardiff residents know nothing about its lonely existence.

St Lythan's Burial Chamber has a really massive capstone too which is 4m (14ft) long, 3m (10ft) wide, and 0.7m (2.5ft) thick. The inner surfaces of the two portal stones of the chamber have been smoothed and the back stone has a port-hole at the top of it.

The St Lythan's Burial Chamber has been found to have an East-West orientation, and it is very likely that a large mound of earth probably once covered the stones, although some authorities think it may never have been totally covered up because of its standing height. In other words that capstone might have been exposed to the sky above.

In the early 19th century, St Lythan's Burial Chamber was known as "The Greyhound-bitch's kennel", or Gwâl y Filiast in Welsh, and is believed to have been used as an animal shelter.

According to folklore the field in which the stones are standing is cursed and has also been called the "Accursed Field" because nothing will grow in it. Rock star turned author and researcher of ancient sites Julian Cope has suggested that its name derives from "Field O'Koeur." Cope's book The Modern Antiquarian is a well-researched volume of epic proportions and contains information and ideas about the ancient sites the writer visited around Britain.

One legend says that the stones will grant any wish whispered to them on the night of Halloween. Another tradition from local folklore claims that the capstone spins three times each Midsummer's Eve. This idea fits with another name for the field in which the dolmen stands which is Maes y Felin (The Mill Field.) On the same night it was believed that all the stones left the site and went bathing in a local river.

website link: www.hubpages.com

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Striders Tuesday 22nd February 2011

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our
Alice Springs Golf Club Walk

The Striders on their walk around the Alice Springs Golf Club followed by a well deserved meal in the golf club. Another perfect day with all our friends in the U3A.

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Stragglers

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our
Undy Walk

Photo's by Adrian and Glenice Dallow

14 photo's from a walk by the Stragglers on Tuesday 7th December from Undy Church across the moors, down to the sea wall and back to the Church then on to the Wheatsheaf, where we thawed out!

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Strollers

Two photographs below from the Strollers walks for the
30th November and 7th December 2010

*please click the images below to access larger photographs

photo: near Kemys Tower House:

photo: Speach House, Forest of Dean

photos taken by Ken Payne

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Ilfracombe October 2010 Walkers

What a fantastic week we all had-38 of us, on our walking holiday based at Ilfracombe at the beginning of October. The sun shone brilliantly every day and how lovely and warm it was, the last of this year's summer.

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of our
Walkers holiday to Ilfracombe

Photographs taken by Delma Jones, David and Brenda Buckley

Tuesday: Roger our faithfully chariot driver dropped us off in Croyde Bay. The weather was a bit misty but forecast sun later.  We left the bus and all booted up set off up the road towards Baggy Point. The first part was through the National Trust car park and UP.  When we all reached the top a welcome drink and banana break was taken looking at the somewhat misty views across Croyde Bay and towards where we knew Wales was.  After being suitably refreshed and having got our breath back off we went.  We did climb up and down (undulations is Geraint’s new word for the hills) following the coast with the sun breaking through and the views becoming more and more spectacular.  By the time we dropped down to Putsborough Beach the sun was out and we stopped for lunch sat above the beach. The surf was rolling in and I am sure we could have sat there all day.  After being suitably refreshed we set off walking the 2 miles of the beach at Morte Bay to Woolacombe with the tide coming in at a rate of knots we arrived just as the other group arrived from the opposite direction. They had left Ilfracombe on foot and after a good climb out of town joined the coastal path in the direction of Woolacombe. There was a sea mist, which gradually lifted by about 11.am. We hadn’t been walking very long before we saw the 10.00am boat going over to Lundy for the day. Geraint had done a bit of research and led us to The Grumpus, a 14th century pub at Lee for an excellent coffee break. Then down through the village to Lee Bay where we joined the roller coaster footpath. Picnic lunch was taken at the flight of 102 steps. Those who had plenty of energy ate at the top and those who were flagging a bit ate at the bottom and were then refreshed to make the climb. Past Bull Point and around Rockham Bay we came to Morte Point a very rocky promontory. As we rounded the point we could see the wide expanse of Woolacombe Bay, the sea glistening in the sunshine. Somehow we seemed to be drawn to The Red Barn where we quenched our thirst and enjoyed a welcome rest in the sun and met up with the rest of the walkers.

Wednesday: Everybody walked together today starting at Lynton where we visited the town church of St Mary the Virgin overlooking Lynmouth and the bay. We joined the coastal path and after a short distance we took the track toward The Valley of The Rocks. As we had our coffee a hovering buzzard above the rocks kept us captivated, watching to see if it would be successful in catching its prey and then a short distance away a group of pretty wild Exmoor ponies munched their way through the bracken. Cream Tea was served at Mother Meldrum's Cafe with delicious scones, clotted cream and jam. Those who wanted to walked down the steep road to Lee Bay where they were surprised to find a small chapel set into the rocks by the slipway. The doors were unlocked and inside was a central altar decorated with lilies and two rows of pews and a vaulted stone ceiling.
We had plenty of time to visit the museum in Lynmouth illustrating the devastating flooding of the area in 1952 and also the local shops. Afterwards those who preferred not to walk took the Cliff Railway up the 500 feet ascent to Lynton. This was made 1887-1890 and is water powered with water being transferred to and from the carriage tanks  to alter their weight and thus allow the movement of the carriages up and down the cliff.

Thursday: Today we were walking up the East Lyn River to Rockford.  This is called the Doone Valley after Lorna Doone written by R D Blackmore and was based on characters and places in the valley. Roger dropped us off in Lynmouth at the very end of the valley where the River Lyn reaches the sea.  We set off to walk first to Watersmeet, the path is undulating and we walked right alongside the river which was bubbling slowly over rocks the one minute and raging over boulders the next. We passed a plaque and half a brown bottle attached to the wall that is all that is left of the Lynmouth Mineral Water bottling site that was washed away in the 1952 flood. It took about an hour to walk the mile and three quarters to Watersmeet This is where the Hoar Oak water and the River Lyn meet.  There is also a cafe and shop, which is a National Trust property that was originally, 19th century fishing lodge. Suitably refreshed we left half the group there to make their way back to Lynmouth and the rest of us carried on up the river to Rockford.  At Rockford a cream tea was arranged and we also met the other group that had walked from County Gate. This group walked along the valley of the East Lyn River, sometimes along the riverbank, through woodlands and then high up above the river in open country looking across the beautiful Exmoor scenery. Thro’ the small village of Leeford with its very old packhorse bridge and continuing along the riverbank with the babbling waters rushing over the rocks. A few miles on we came to the bridge at Rockford where we stopped at the pub for yet another Cream Tea. You really do need to make the most of things when you are in “ The Land of Cream Teas”. The group going back via Watersmeet consisted of some of the original group and some of the other group. The rest of the party took the road up out of Rockford and then across the moors to meet in Lynmouth and the walking part of our holiday was over.

Written by Sue Shepherd & Brenda Buckley

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Stragglers Sculpture Trail Walk in the Forest of Dean - October 2010

Since 1984 The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trust has raised funds to commission artists to celebrate and help us appreciate and understand the life of the forest. The Trust works in partnership with the Forestry Commission which maintains the sculptures and trail.

*please click the images below to access larger photographs

photo: Group coffee break

The sculptures are inspired by the forest - its trees, wildlife and industrial past. They are mostly constructed from natural material from the Dean - wood, stone and iron. The sculptures are interspersed along the trail through majestic oaks and towering Scots pine trees.

New Sculpture for October 2010 is Hill 33 by David Cotterrell. This impressive sculpture is made of HESCO Bastion Concertainer units as used by the Army to build shelters and large-scale defence structures in Afghanistan. David's design is inspired by his memory of seeing Mayan temples hidden within the rainforests in Central and South America.

photo: Hill 33, a new sculpture by David Cotterrell, will be officially opened on the trail in October 2010.

Peter Randall-Page has carved two complementary works. Created on a large scale, these intricate, organic forms are revealed in all their detail and draw our attention to the tiny fragile shapes that exist in the forest.

photo: Acorn cup

The sculptures are placed under their respective trees and they reflect the balance in the Dean between deciduous and coniferous trees. The colour of the Forest of Dean sandstone quarried nearby varies from pink to green

website link: www.forestry.gov.uk

website link: www.forestofdean-sculpture.org.uk

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Stragglers Walking Group   " Lost in  the Maize" and "Free Rangers"

12th October 2010

*please click the images below to access larger photographs

Photographs taken by Jenny and Doug King

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Stragglers Trelleck Walk - September 7th 2010

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the
Stragglers Trelleck Walk

photos taken by Bill Thomas

Here are a couple of Bill's photos taken at the Virtuous Well in Trelleck towards the end of the walk.  Norma led the walk from Trelleck to Beacon Hill from where you have a beautiful views of Forest of Dean and Gloucestershire on the one side and beautiful views of the Wales and the Welsh mountains on the other, we did a circular walk returning via the Virtuous Well where Bill took group photos and the offerings left by various people.

 

Glenice Dallow

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Strollers visit Symonds Yat

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the
Strollers visit Symonds Yat

Photo’s were taken by Sue Shepherd except the black and white one was taken in the 1950’s by her father who was a professional photographer in Newport.

The weather was not a good forecast and a lot of people were on holiday so only 10 intrepid strollers set off for a 6+ mile walk at Symonds Yat with a final push to the Yat rock if you wanted to.

We started off from Symonds Yat near the Saracens Head and walked along the river bank crossing over the river at a wobbly foot bridge.   We then made our way to the Olde Ferrie Inne where we had a comfort stop and a drink. 

Then on up the river to St Dubricius Church where our picnic lunch was eaten.  Buried in the church yard is a tomb. The tomb was built by Thomas Gwillim whose only grandchild, Elizabeth Posthuma Gwillim married John G. Simcoe, who is little known in England but actually became the first Governor of Upper Canada and founder of Toronto.

On again and then 8 of us took the high road to the top of the Yat.  It was jungle warfare on the way up but we got there. The views as ever were spectacular and worth the long pull to the top.

A short downhill and we were back at the car park where the other 2 were waiting for us.

The black and white picture is me in the mid 50’s at the top of the Yat.  As you can see health and safety had not taken over the country and there is no sign of a wall.

Sue Shepherd

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WATCH OUT FOR TICKS 

Though it does not happen often, on a recent Striders walk at Rhosilli, one of our walkers was attacked by a tick, fortunately with no adverse affects.

Ticks are tiny blood sucking members of the spider family and can carry some rather nasty diseases such as Lyme disease.

They hang out on grass, in leaf litter and on low plants waiting for the unwary host to pass by. On humans they then head for warm places such as the backs of the knees, the groin and under the arms.

The experts suggest, then, that walkers should wear long trousers tucked into socks (or with gaiters) and long sleeved tops when out walking and that a Deet based insect repellent is used.

Should you acquire a tick, the only safe way of removal is to use fine pointed tweezers, or a tick removal tool such as the “O’Tom Hook”. The later may be bought for £4.99 from the charity BADA-UK and is accompanied by an excellent illustrated leaflet. Their address is BADA-UK, P.O. Box 544, Wath-upon-Dearne, Rotherham, S63 3D (enclose a first class A5 SAE) or visit their web-site  www.bada-uk.org.

Wendy White (Striders)

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Strollers revisited Rhossili

STROLLERS’ 6 MILE WALK – RHOSSILI 10 AUGUST 2010

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the
"Rhossili revisited by the Strollers Walking Group"

Photo's taken by Rosemary Brown and Kenneth Jackson

Despite a wet start and having to eat our picnic lunches on the coach on arrival in Rhossili, we were determined to have a good day out.  The rain eventually stopped and the sun shone for us.

We walked part of the coastal path from Rhossili to Worms Head and then headed eastward towards Mewslade Bay, stopping on the way to admire the views.  Some of us walked down to the Bay, where we lingered awhile on the beach before rejoining the others.

From Mewslade Bay we turned inland and headed for the Beacon.  The views from the top were spectacular, making the climb well worth it.  We stopped here for a while to take in the views and also took the opportunity to take some photographs.  We eventually made our way downhill to the coach park where we partook in some well-deserved light refreshments, eg ice-cream, etc.

We left Rhossili at about 4.30 pm arriving in Caldicot at approximately 7.00 pm.

The walk was a great success and we had a thoroughly good time.

Rosemary Brown

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Background: Rhossili Bay is the most westerly bay on the Gower peninsula and bears the full might of the Atlantic swells. It is the most consistent surfing beach on Gower, with the biggest waves at the north end at Llangennith. It is a dramatic environment with Rhossili Downs towering above the vast expanse of beach that stretches three miles.

Heading west along the cliff path towards the end of the peninsula there is Worm's Head, a mile long serpent-like promontory jutting out into the ocean. Access to the beach; a good path leads down the side of the cliffs, but its a steep climb back up to the car park. For spectacular panoramic views over the bay why not walk up Rhossili Downs, the climb and views will take your breath away, but well worth it!

website link: www.enjoygower.com

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Caldicot & District U3A Stragglers Walking Group

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the "Blaenavon Walk"

Photographs were taken by Bill Thomas and Glenice Dallow

On Tuesday, 10th August the Stragglers expected a guided walk around Blaenavon followed by a picnic by the Keepers pond with an additional walk on the Blorenge afterwards.  However the weather had other ideas, undaunted we set off for Blaenavon where we had coffee/tea in the Blaenavon Heritage Centre and met our guide Mr John Evans, a local historian.

Due to the weather we proceeded to Blaenavon Iron works where we were given a very interested tour of the works and excellent insight into the lives of the men, women and children who worked and lived there.  John gave us many anecdotes about the people living in Blaenavon and district, often including stories from his own family.

Afterwards we went to the Keepers pond but unfortunately the weather did not improve but after our picnic we ventured onto a beautiful heather-clad walk to view the Foxhunter cairn.  Foxhunter was a champion show jumping horse ridden by Sit Harry Llewellyn.

Thank you Brian for your hard work arranging this for us.

Glenice Dallow

website link: www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

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U3A Walkers’ Social       Caerwent Hall  August 3rd 2010

Well, didn’t they do well! The superb spread of sumptuous food and drink was overwhelming and delicious.

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the "Walkers Social"

Snapshots of some of our walkers at the social.

Photo's by Pat Dawe and Adrian Dallow

On behalf of all the walkers who enjoyed the occasion I would like to thank those who lovingly prepared and provided food, all the committee members, and all who were prepared to forgo their walking that morning in order to set up the buffet.

Also a very large thank you to Pam Simpson who co-ordinated the event.

When can we do it again?

Brenda Buckley

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Walking Groups combined trip to Malvern

Caldicot & District U3A Walking Group visit to Malvern U3A on Monday 28th June

Monday 28th June 2010 dawned bright and clear for our trip to Malvern to walk with the Malvern Group

A happy group of combined walkers assembled at the departure point full of chat, and dare I say the odd bit of gossip.  Punctually Andrew our driver arrived and ferried us safely on our way in his comfortable coach.

Having reached Malvern a nice cup of tea/coffee in the Malvern Theatre gave us a good start to our walks.  Our Stragglers walk was led by Tom, an energetic 86 year old and he certainly gave us and interesting walk of 4.1 miles, much of it climbing nearly to the top of the long ridge of hills overlooking the Severn Vale, offering exceptional views as far as the Brecon Beacons and Hay Bluff. 

Our picnic was taken here and although the day was hot and bright, a pleasant cooling breeze coasted over the hill and kept us feeling comfortable.  Talking with our hosts we gained some knowledge of the area and enjoyed their company on the walk very much.

A few observations of interest – when Tom announced that there would be no more slopes to climb, we still continued to climb for the next 20 minutes, puffing along like an old steam engine!  Again when he said the walk would only be another half hour – one hour later we arrived. 

The distance of 4.1 miles seemed like 8! Having absorbed this information, I can only conclude that in Malvern: - 1 mile = 2 Caldicot miles, thirty minutes = one hour and uphill means downhill!

On completion, we enjoyed and excellent tea provided by our hospitable hosts in a quaint old Church and Hall.  A most interesting day and our thanks must go to Pam and Glenice and all those who organised this trip and made the day so pleasant and memorable.

T. Jackson Stragglers

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the Malvern Walk

photographs were taken by Carol Elliott, George & Anne Craig and Adrian & Glenice Dallow

All of our walking groups did a combined trip to Malvern on Monday June 28th 2010. They did various walks and as you can see by the photographs which were taken by George & Anne Craig that the weather was beautiful although somewhat hot, better not complain as it won't be long before we will need our waterproofs again.

Caldicot U3A - Walkers trip to Malvern on 28 June 2010

On a hot June day, 60 walkers travelled by coach to Malvern where we were met by several members of Malvern U3A.  Following coffee we divided into two groups depending on the level of difficulty.  We went with the Strollers and Striders led by Margaret and another Margaret both from Malvern. 

Our first point of interest was the Great Malvern Priory.  Built in 1085 with a fine collection of medieval stained glass and tiles.  There are original gas lights in the grounds.  The Priory was bought by the local people for £20 to save it from destruction in 1541.   Since then it has been the parish church at the centre of Great Malvern.  Unfortunately we were unable to go inside due to choir practice.  

Margaret had gone to great lengths to allow us the privilege of walking through the grounds of the Boy’s School although girls have been accepted since 1992.  Known as Malvern College it was founded in 1865. The school is known for its innovative approaches to education and for sports. Among its former pupils are at least two Prime Ministers, an Olympic Gold medallist and the novelist C S Lewis author of ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’.  Everyone was in awe of the magnificent grounds and buildings.

The group then left the town and started to climb the hill.  There were a number of opportunities to take in the fantastic views and because it was such a clear day we could see for miles in all directions and various landmarks could be seen including the start of the Cotswolds. 

We reached St Ann’s Well for our picnic stop.  In Victorian times , donkeys were tethered here and used to transport people from the town to the well when they were seeking the restorative properties of the water and the clear air.   St Ann’s Well was one of the most popular watering places for wealthy invalids. 

In 1745 Dr John Wall a Worcestershire physician analysed the water and found that the efficacy of the water seems chiefly to arise from its great purity but it was necessary for the waters to be drunk on the spot and taken regularly to be successful.  A plaque on the wall is dedicated to Blind George Pullen who could be heard playing the euphonium and dulcitone on almost every day for 50 years from about 1880 to entertain the visitors to St Ann’s Well.

It was then time  for the group to move on upwards and the terrain became quite precarious at times but we strode on through huge ferns that came to shoulder height.  Eventually we reached a summit and encountered the Quarry lake. 

From here it was a gentle walk to the start of the main track to the Beacon, but this was not our route today.  A few more miles were walked before both groups met at the Wyche Free Church for a feast of home made cakes and scones with lots of tea and coffee.  Everyone agreed that this had been an exhilarating day and thanks to  Pam and Glenice for organising a successful outing.

As new members of Caldicot U3A could we thank everyone for making us welcome and it is lovely to meet such friendly and happy people.

Anne and George

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The Strollers were walking in the Elan Valley, June 2010

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the
Elan Valley Walk

 

Photo's taken by Sue Shepherd & Pam Simpson

The Elan Valley Estate attracts a wide variety of visitors and a good starting point for all is the Visitor Centre which has a wide variety of information and educational and interactive resources. 

In total the Elan Estate attracts more than 400,000 visitors annually. Many people come to enjoy the peace and quiet, some come for the wildlife and scenery, whilst others take part in more active pursuits. Whatever activity you choose, the information on the Recreation page should help you to get the maximum enjoyment out of your visit to the Elan Valley.

For those wishing to stay in the area the nearby town of Rhayader has a wide choice of accommodation and facilities. The Elan Estate can also offer self catering accommodation in cottages and farmhouses on the Estate - for details please look on the Where to Stay pages.

How to Find Us

The Elan Valley is situated in the county of Powys in mid Wales and can be accessed easily from the town of Rhayader which is on the intersection of the main A470 (North/South) and the A44 which comes from the East.

website link: www.elanvalley.org.uk

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The Strollers Blaenavon Big Pit Walk  on 11th May 2010

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the
Blaenavon Big Pit Walk

Photo's taken by Ann Taylor-Heard

Big Pit is a real coal mine and one of Britain's leading mining museums.

With facilities to educate and entertain all ages, Big Pit is an exciting and informative day out. Enjoy a multi-media tour of a modern coal mine with a virtual miner in the Mining Galleries, exhibitions in the Pithead Baths and Historic colliery buildings open to the public for the first time.

All this AND the world-famous Underground Tour. Go 300 feet underground with a real miner and see what life was like for the thousands of men who worked at the coal face.

Big Pit became part of Amgueddfa Cymru - National Museum Wales on 1 February 2001. After major redevelopment, it re-opened in 2004 and went straight on to win the prestigious Gulbenkian Prize for Museum of the Year.

The redevelopment turned the original features, like the Pithead Baths, into fresh displays that bring life at the coalface vividly into focus. However, perhaps its most famous feature is still the trip 90 metres down the shaft to explore working conditions underground.

An award-winning national museum that still retains many traits of its former role as a coal mine, standing high on the heather-clad moors of Blaenafon, the tunnels and buildings that once echoed to the sound of the miners now enjoy the sound of the footsteps and chatter of visitors from all over the world.

The museum is set in a unique industrial landscape, designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2000 in recognition of its international importance to the process of industrialisation through iron and coal production.

Big Pit is a living, breathing reminder of the coal industry in Wales and the people and society it created.

website link: www.museumwales.ac.uk

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The Strollers Redwick circular Walk  on 13th April 2010

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the
Redwick circular Walk

Photo's taken by Ann Taylor-Heard

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The Strollers Three Churches Walk  on 9th March 2010

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the
Three Churches Walk

Photo's taken by Ann Taylor-Heard

Stragglers' Bluebell Walk at Trelleck May 2010

Please click on the images below to access larger photographs

Photographs taken by Adrian & Glenice Dallow

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Striders April 2010

April 13th was a wonderful sunny morning when we started the walk from Llangwm car park! Up past the Baptist chapel (built in 1840); steadily we climbed up the fields to the top, well worth the effort where you get lovely panoramic views. 

Looking down on the field we call Cardiac Hill (very steep) and up the other side, we walk on through a Nature Reserve and on to the lane looking out towards Raglan Castle and Monmouth.  

We stopped for a coffee break in Llangeview Church which is now owned by Friends of Friendless Church, we went inside and looked at the ‘Horse Box Pews’ afterwards we sat outside on a stone seat which they say was for late comers. 

We started to climb back up the fields and then down to where our cars were parked.

A lovely walk with 25 stiles and one gate to get over. 

Carol & Mo  Not forgetting Cardiac Hill (Editor)

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Coralie lets us into a few secrets!

Every Tuesday there are three groups of walkers out and about in an area of anywhere up to 25 miles from Caldicot. Well wrapped up (especially recently,) and armed with flasks of coffee or tea and bananas (even chocolate biscuits!), we follow our dedicated leaders whatever the weather and terrain have in store for us.  After our walk we are shepherded safely to a well-chosen eating-house for those amazing “special offer “lunches. 

Do we enjoy ourselves? Are we fulfilling the aims of the University of the Third Age? Well, let me tell you how the members of the “Strollers “group have been “educating “themselves recently.

One week we learnt how to navigate safely a mighty mountain stream, with strong and caring men standing in the middle of the waterfall to grasp the others’ hands and guide them across. 

One week our maths skills were tested as we counted up to 21 stiles crossed that morning.  We have had nature study lessons, studying snowdrops, catkins and mole hills. We constantly practise the art of socialising while negotiating ice, snow, mud, cowpats and while eating in snug hostelries. On one of our walks we observed herds of deer in Berkeley Deer Park. 

A walk from Mathern to Mounton via Pwllmeyric taught us how to cross a busy road safely. Our latest walk through mud and falling snow reminded us of the “Mad dogs and Englishmen “-----, sorry, mad folk and walkers-----go out in all weathers.

Summer walks included scaling Twmbarlwm, climbing Tyndale’s monument with the aid of torches in the dark interior and learning more about the former industries of the Forest of Dean and walking through head-high sweet corn.

It is not a hard school, but times of great fun and friendship, enjoying fog, rain, wind, snow and often sunshine in the midst of a bad week and as a by-product, we are exercising our bodies!

Coralie Payne

Curley Oak Tree Walk, 30th March 2010

After cancelling our curley oak tree walk in January at Wentwood, we successfully did the walk on March 30th. It rained the two hours we were walking, wet through, but we all enjoyed it. The oak tree is reported to be approx. nine hundred years old.

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the
Curley Oak Tree Walk

 

Here are our photo's of the stragglers group around the tree.

Photographs taken by Bill & Jan Thomas

 

The Stragglers Daffodil Walk, 23th March 2010

April 2010 Newsletter Walking report

Today, the 23rd March, the Stragglers Walking group had the greatest pleasure of visiting the village of Oxenhall (near Newent) to view the wild daffodils throughout the local woods.

Although the morning commenced cloudy with a slight chill, our twenty-five intrepid walkers were not deterred and boarded the coach at 9.00 am amidst much chatter and jocularity and set sail for Oxenhall.

Arriving about 10.30 am we were met and welcomed by four lovely ladies of Oxenhall church at Oxenhall village hall who plied us with excellent home-made cakes coffee and tea and produced a nice range of some unusual jams at a very reasonable price.

After this pleasant interlude, we set off for the woods and followed numerous trail through a veritable carpet of beautiful wild daffodils, or as Lord Tennyson wrote so long ago; -“A host of golden daffodils”.

Owing to rain on previous days some of the walks were wet and muddy, but caused little concern to the Stragglers who negotiated the same with more than a little laughter, and ably led by Kath one of our hostesses from the Church.  One happy soul, having just purchased new walking boots (old ones disintegrated after 25 years of wear!) was able to give them a very good debut!

With the walk completed, again, at the village hall our kind ladies served us with no less than three kinds of home-made soup followed by three types of fruit crumble and custard with coffee or tea to finish.  Our driver, a pleasant chap, joined us for lunch and enjoyed his day.

A short walk to the Newent/Gloucester canal and Oxenhall Church completed our day.  We returned home about 16.00, having thoroughly enjoyed our day, together with excellent companionship and much laughter, (oh what would our families’ have thought could they but see us!): - (a bunch of happy 60+ teenagers!).

Our thanks and appreciation go to Glenice Dallow for all the hard work she carried out whilst organising this interesting walk and providing such a pleasant day.

T.Jackson

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the
Daffodil Walk

Oxenhall with the stragglers, 23rd March including a shot of Tony Jackson's new boots which we were intent on getting dirty.

Photographs taken by Adrian and Glenice Dallow, Bill and Jan Thomas

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The Stridders Walk Dewstow, 22nd December 2009

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the Dewstow Walk

Pictures taken by David Buckley

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Walkers Christmas meal held at the Dewstow golf club December

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the Christmas Meal

The photographs were taken by Pam Simpson

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Strollers Walking Group Photographs

*please click the images below to access a larger photos of the Strollers

Photo: Tree hugging in the Forest of Dean

Photo: Cleddon Falls, Wye Valley.

Photographs taken by Ken Payne

Striders walk from Llanthony Abbey to the Black Mountains

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the walk

Photographs taken by Carol Elliott

Llanthony Priory is a partly ruined former Augustinian priory in the secluded Vale of Ewyas, a steep sided once glaciated valley within the Black Mountains area of the Brecon Beacons National Park in Monmouthshire.

The Black Mountains (Welsh: Y Mynyddoedd Duon) are a group of hills spread across parts of Powys and Monmouthshire in southeast Wales, and extending across the national border into Herefordshire, England. They are the easternmost of the four ranges of hills that comprise the Brecon Beacons National Park.

The Black Mountains may be roughly defined as those hills contained within a triangle defined by the towns of Abergavenny in the southeast, Hay-on-Wye in the north and the village of Llangors in the west. Another 'gateway' town to the Black Mountains is Talgarth.

Website link: www.castlewales.com

Rhossili Walk by the Strollers

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the The Strollers 7 mile walk at Rhossili.

Photographs taken by Ann Taylor-Heard & Kenneth Payne

Ascent of Twmbarlwm by the Strollers

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the ascent of Twmbarlwm
by the Strollers

Photographs taken by Ann Taylor-Heard

Photographs taken by Mo Baker and Carol Elliott

Black Mountains

The most easterly peaks in the Brecon Beacons are the Black Mountains where you'll find tiny villages and churches set in a rolling green landscape of picturesque hills and valleys. Don't mistake the area for the Black Mountain however; the Black Mountain (singular) is a spectacular wilderness environment in its own right, but the Black Mountains (plural) are a little less demanding for the laid-back walker.

The Black Mountains have long narrow valleys and isolated farms reminiscent of Bruce Chatwin's novel On the Black Hill, which was based in the Crasswell area near Hay Bluff. The mountains rise above 2000ft. If you don't want to climb the highest, Waun Fach, you can walk instead along the long, heath-covered ridges that cross the area - all of them have wonderful views.


The Striders Walking Group walk distance is between 4 - 7 miles. "Moderate & Strenuous" (we aim for a brisker walk)

The Striders Walking Group leave Woodstock Way car park every Tuesday at 9-15am for our organised walk

Black Mountains website link: www.walking.visitwales.com

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Cosmeston June 2009

The country park has a variety of habitats covering over 100 hectares of land and water, some 46ha being designated a S.S.S.I (Site of Special Scientific Interest) protecting the rare and diverse plant and animal species.

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the Walkers Group
visit to Cosmeston

Photographs taken by Adrian and Glenice Dallow

Cosmeston offers a fine introduction into the countryside and is open all year round. The park has been designed to enable people of all abilities to discover and enjoy the countryside found within the Vale of Glamorgan.

The Park is also home to Cosmeston Medieval Village which is a Heritage Project that is unique in Britain. The reconstructed 14th Century village is on it's original site and consists of medieval buildings, gardens, rare breeds and a small museum. Tours of the village are by costumed villagers. Special events take place throughout the year such as jousting, medieval combat, archery, crafts, Halloween events and Summer Festivals.

Park History

Cosmeston lakes country park had its origins with the advent of limestone quarrying in the early 1890s. The quarrying ceased in 1970 and this saw one of the quarry sites being used for landfill. Underground springs flooded parts of the quarried area creating lakes. The quarry spoil areas were landscaped and together with the lakes form the main features of the park which we can see today giving access to over of 100 hectares of woodland, calcareous grassland and wetlands.

Website link: www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/living/environment

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The Mynydd Machen Walk

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the Walkers Group
visit to Mynydd Machen

Photographs by Rosemary Brown

An energetic but extremely rewarding walk in the Welsh hills, where steep beech woodlands merge into panoramic hilltops. A mixture of short road sections, footpaths and bridleways, generally free of mud and with few stiles, there are however, several steep climbs, one of them lengthy.

website link: www.walkingworld.com

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THE CAPEL NEWYDD and REDBROOK WALKS

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the CAPEL NEWYDD and REDBROOK WALKS

Photographs By Ann Taylor-Heard

The Capel Newydd walk took place on the 10th March and although the sun was out it was bitterly cold. The Redbrook walk took place on the 31st March. It was a two part walk with a picnic at Newlands Church in the Forest of Dean.

U3A website Walkers Page May 2009

Subject: walkers' trip - Avebury

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the Walkers Group
visit to Avebury

Walkers article and photo's by Adrian and Glenice Dallow

On the Avebury trip there were two walks arranged - one led by Aid & myself for the Stragglers - our photos are for this walk obviously. Wendy (White) led the walk for the Strollers/Striders, a longer walk of 7 miles with a picnic. We went back to the Red Lion for our pub lunch.

BACKGROUND

This internationally renowned stone circle, a World Heritage Site, partly encompasses the pretty village of Avebury. Many of the stones were re-erected in the 1930s by the archaeologist Alexander Keiller, who uncovered the true wonder of one of the most important megalithic monuments in Europe. You can picnic amongst the stones and explore this intriguing and mysterious landscape, then discover the story of the people who created it. The Barn Gallery and the Stables Gallery house the museum, exhibiting many of the fascinating finds from all the local excavations. The Barn Gallery has many exciting interactive displays to bring the area to life and children can take part in a range of activities in the crafts area. Another layer of history is provided by the buildings themselves: the dovecote is 16th-century, while the thatched threshing barn and stables are 17th-century. Nearby, the gentle rise of Windmill Hill, once the site of an important neolithic settlement, has several well-preserved Bronze Age burial mounds and boasts commanding views. West of Avebury, the Iron Age earthwork of Oldbury Castle crowns Cherhill Down, along with the conspicuous Lansdowne Monument. With the spectacular folds of Calstone Coombes, this area of open downland provides wonderful walking.

Website link: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

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Great Barnetts Wood Walk - 12th May 2009

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the Walkers Group
visit to Great Barnetts Wood

Photographs taken by Adrian and Glenice Dallow

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On the last Monday in April, Malvern U3A brought a coach of their walkers to join with us for a walk around Caldicot Castle Country Park, which was followed by a meal and refreshments at The Old Tippling Philosopher, a good time was had by all.

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the Malvern U3A and the Walkers Group walk around Caldicot Castle Country Park

Photographs taken by Adrian Dallow

*Please click "here" to access Photographs and Walks of Caldicot Castle Countrypark

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The Sculpture Trail forest of Dean with the Stragglers group

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the Walkers Group
visit to Sculpture Trail forest of Dean

photo: Iron Road' twenty carved jarrah wood sleepers on the disused railway line relates the industrial past of the forest

Many thanks to Photo's by Adrian and Glennis Dallow for providing the fantastic
photographs for this slideshow

The Forest of Dean is one of the most ancient and beautiful woodland areas in the country, with a fascinating history. The Sculpture Trail is a fantastic way of exploring the area as well as to gain an understanding of its industrial past.

Previously an area of mine-workings, the forest has been transformed by sculptures made by international artists, including David Nash, Cornelia Parker, Ian Hamilton-Finlay and Neville Gabie.

The artworks provide a unique encounter with site-specific sculpture in a wonderful forest environment. The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trust also host temporary events on the Trail, alongside commissioning new sculptures and working with communities.

website link: www.forestofdean-sculpture.org.uk

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Severn Bridge Walk

31st March 2009

The stragglers walked the Severn Bridge today, across eastbound, over the top of the toll booths for a welcome break at the services then home again westbound.

*please click the images below to access a larger photos of the Stragglers visit to the Severn Bridge

Photograph taken by Norma Shreeve

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Photographs taken by Adrian Dallow

Lovely day for it not that wind we have had recently and the tide was in and we even saw a boat passing underneath. Like a lot of kids we also waved to a train as it passed beneath us and got a long toot on the whistle in return.

The Severn Bridge was opened in 1966 to replace the ferry service crossing from Aust to Beachley. The new bridge provided a direct link for the M4 motorway into Wales.

The Severn Bridge has now carried more than 300,000,000 vehicles since it was opened in 1966. Between 1980 and 1990 traffic flows increased by 63% and there were severe congestion problems in the summer and at peak times each day. Further increases in traffic flows were expected in the years ahead. The problems encountered on the Severn Bridge were made worse by the occasional high winds, accidents and breakdowns. It is for these reasons that the Second Severn Crossing was constructed as without it congestion would become more serious and frequent on the M4, M5 and the local road network.

In 1984, the Government started to study the problems and in 1986 announced its intention to build a second Crossing at English Stones, some 5km downstream of the existing Bridge. Roads were to be constructed connecting the new Crossing to the M4 on either side of the estuary and a link to the M5 near Avonmouth.

Between 1987 and 1990 further studies were undertaken to find the best location and standard for the Crossing and approach roads. A series of public exhibitions and other consultations was held and in January 1990 the route for the scheme was published.

In April 1989 four groups, which included Engineers, Contractors and Banks were invited to tender for the provision of a Second Severn Crossing. A year later the Secretary of State for Transport announced the selection of the bid led by John Laing Ltd with GTM-Entrepose to design, build and finance the Second Crossing. This Consortium was also to take-over the maintenance and operation of the existing Severn Bridge. The agreement was formally signed between the Government and Severn River Crossing plc - a Company formed by Laing and GTM with Bank of America and Barclays de Zoete Wedd in October 1990.

Before work could start, Government sought powers from parliament to enable the building of the new Crossing and approach roads by means of the Severn Bridges Bill which was introduced in parliament in November 1990. Parliament took approximately one year to consider its provisions. Royal Assent was given in 1992 to the Severn Bridges Act 1992 enabling the Concession and construction of the new Crossing to start in April 1992.

The new Crossing was opened on 5 June 1996 by His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales.

Cwm Lickey Circular Walk

This walk highlights the iron industry of the Race area and the community that grew up around it.

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the Walkers Group
visit to Cwm Lickey

photo: Edlogan Manor Info point

Photograph was taken by Ann Taylor-Heard

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Torfaen Trail – Figure of 8 Walk

This 35 mile route takes in the whole of Torfaen, from Cwmbran in the south, through Pontypool to Blaenavon in the north. It has been broken down into nine linear sections, which vary in distance from 2 miles to 9 miles. Walkers of all ages and abilities will find something to suit them, from an enjoyable stroll to the full 35 mile challenge!

This scenic walks takes in ancient woodlands; forestry; country lanes and open mountain top.

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Tintern and Brockweir Walk

*please click the image below to access a photo slideshow of the Walkers Group visit to
Tintern and Brockweir

photo: Frosty bridge

Photograph was taken by Ann Taylor-Heard

Tintern (Welsh: Tyndyrn) is a village on the west bank of the River Wye in Monmouthshire, Wales, close to the border with England It is popular with tourists, who visit for the natural scenery and the ruined Tintern Abbey.

Brockweir is a small village on the eastern bank of the River Wye, within the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, England. A road bridge links it across the river to Monmouthshire, Wales, about a mile (1.6 km) outside the village of Tintern . The village is close to both the Offa's Dyke Path and the Wye Valley Walk.

The Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is an internationally important protected landscape straddling the border between England and Wales. It is one of the most dramatic and scenic landscape areas in southern Britain.

The River Wye (Welsh: Afon Gwy) is the fifth-longest river in the United Kingdom. The upper part of the river passes through the settlements of Rhayader, Builth Wells and Hay-on-Wye, but the area designated as an AONB surrounds only the 72-mile stretch lower down the river, from just south of the city of Hereford to Chepstow.

This area covers parts of the counties of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Monmouthshire, and is recognised in particular for its limestone gorge scenery and dense native woodlands, as well as its wildlife, archaeological and industrial remains. It is also historically important as one of the birthplaces of the modern tourism industry. The area is predominantly rural, and many people make a living from tourism, agriculture or forestry. Ross-on-Wye is the only town within the AONB itself, but Hereford, Monmouth, Coleford and Chepstow lie just outside its boundaries.

Some of our walkers at Caldicot Castle in the snow February 2009

*please click the images below to access larger photographs

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The Stragglers walking group in Sirhowy Valley, working up an appetite for their pre Christmas lunch

*please click all the images below to access larger photographs

Photograph was taken by Norma Shreeve

"Away day" for U3A Walkers

Instead of their usual local walks last Tuesday over 50 members of Caldicot and District U3A Walking Group boarded a coach to take them to Queenswood Country Park on the Leominster road out of Hereford.

Photo: Striders at Queenswood Country Park

At the park they were met by members of Hereford U3A who had offered to lead two walks, one of 7 to 8 miles and a shorter one of around 3 miles. The journey to Hereford had been very wet in places but both groups were able to start their walks during a drier spell.

The short walk was totally within the wooded area of the park with some of the paths being very muddy after the heavy rain.

However the walk finished up in the Arboretum where there were gravel paths and a fine view over farmland towards Hereford and the distant hills.

Photo: Strollers Stragglers at view point in Queenswood Arboretum

Members of this group then retired to a local hostelry to await the return of the others! Walkers on the longer walk went through the woodland and the countryside beyond taking time out for a picnic on route. They unfortunately were not so lucky with the weather as they had to endure a few more showers before their return to join the rest on the coach. A very enjoyable day was had by all thanks to the group convenor, Sheila Ford and the group treasurer, Pam Simpson who together organised the trip.

David Evans

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