Today both groups of walkers set off from the Ship Inn at Haskayne to complete the last walks of 2017. We were expecting very bad weather so were all suitably attired in heavy boots and waterproofs, but our fears were not met and we all completed a good walk and remained dry, if a little windswept! The long walk, led by Alan Carr, took a route from Haskyne through to Halsall and Downholland using some very muddy fields, tracks, roads and canal footpaths and was a little over 9 miles in length. We set a good pace and completed the route in just over 3 hours. The shorter walk, led by Judith Jones, took a different route along the canal towpath, and then joined the same route as the other walk, across fields and climbing the 7 or so stiles near the end of the route. They were pleased to have achieved a walk of just over 6 miles which is slightly longer than their usual meander.Both sets of walkers then rejoined at the Ship inn for a very welcome lunch, which was a little slow in being served but when it did eventually grace our table was devoured at speed. Clearly the walks had stimulated appetites.
So, as this was the final walk of the year, it only remains for me to thank all those who have led the varied walks, and those who have participated. We have seen some lovely areas of the countryside, both local and further afield, and it has been heartening to see that the group numbers have remained very consistent and everyone is keen to see the group continue. A planning meeting was held this week for the 2018 walk programme and we have some pleasant and varied walks to look forward to next year. The programme will been posted under a separate listing.
The first walk of 2018 will take place on Thursday 4th January and will be a circular walk along the Sefton coastline, approx. 6 miles in length, and is suitable for both groups as it is a fairly flat walk Full details of the walk and start times will be published on the website towards the end of December.