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| YHA Grand Tour Sunday 26th- Friday 31st July 2009 | Austrian Holiday 27 August-10 September 2008 (articles) |
| Senior Members' Evening 3 Oct 2008 (article) |
Dear Members,
Spring has arrived and with it a new newsletter and summer programme with lots to interest you. I hope many of you will book for the coach ramble to visit the delightful area around Bolton Abbey in Wharfedale on 7th June. The Children’s Walk is on 14th June, and the Barbecue at Copeland Cottage, Maer on Sunday 19th July. An autumn holiday at the Ambassador Hotel, Scarborough is arranged for October.Due to the congestion at our existing Hanley meeting point the Committee has decided to change the location to Hassall Street, Hanley which lies at the top of Bottleslow Street, and where free parking is allowed on Sundays. A map is enclosed. Meet at the new location from the start of the summer programme on 26 April 2009.
Thanks to everyone who turned out for the AGM (minutes enclosed) and the composition of the sub-committees are as follows:
Walks Committee (Secretary: Mike Everill) John Brereton, Liz Dodd, Ken Elkin, Brian Joynson, Nigel Shaw, Ashley Steadman and Bill Walshaw
Social Committee (Secretary: Peter Johnson) Margaret Bailey, John Brereton, Jean Challinor, Bill Finney, Joyce Rawlinson, Barrie Tunnicliffe and Hilary Walker.
Now is the time for renewing your subscription (£7 per person) excluding those members who have recently joined. The Renewal Form and Membership Card are enclosed. A reminder that if you don’t renew and then wish to join later, then you have to pay the £10 joining fee.
We welcome the following new members:
Paul & Maureen Machin of Penkhull
Peter Brownsword of Newcastle
John Morton of Rode Heath
Duncan Whittall of Norton Green
Michael Brookes of Biddulph
Barbara Higginson of Sneyd Green
Cathy Hopwood of Chell Heath
Ronald & Anne Dorsey of Birches Head
Ray & Josie Green, Acreswood, BurslemWe look forward to seeing you on walks and other events.
For those members who are interested in purchasing Viking Dry Boots, we have been notified that William Powell Ltd. Carr House, 1 Tramway, Banbury, Oxfordshire, OX16 5TD (Tel. 01295 701701) have a limited range of sizes (39-42) at a reduced price.
Hoping you all enjoy the summer.
Marion Walshaw
(Hon Sec)
It is sad to record the death of Jack Boggis, a long serving Honorary Life Member.
Jack had been a member since 1954 and has played a very full and active role in Club affairs. He was a very active supporter of the now disbanded local Blind Rambling Club and acted as the Club representative for many years. He was also a long serving organiser of his local Cubs, only ceasing his role due to the Scout movement retirement rules. Jack was one of the founder members of the Lakeside, now Barlaston Golf Club, where he was President. He was also very useful Crown Green bowls player. An ardent caravan enthusiast, he and Margaret were great supporters of the Club’s Caravan and Camping week-ends. A wonderful raconteur, he was always one to come up with a suitable tale or comment when one was needed. Some of his performances in the entertainments at Club dinners were quite exceptional and always great fun. He enjoyed a pint and always had a smile and a warm welcome, even during the last few years of his life when he was suffering considerable pain due to his medical conditions. He will be sadly missed. Above all Jack was a family man and our condolences go to Margaret and family at their great loss.Coach Ramble to Wharfedale
Sunday 7 June 2009
This year we have a coach ramble to this very attractive area in Yorkshire using Challinor’s executive coach. The Wharfe is one of the most beautiful rivers in the country, surrounded by heatherclad hills with extensive woods in the lower reaches. A great day out is assured and we hope that members will support this trip and enjoy this splendid area.
There will be B, C & D walks available, all starting in the vicinity of the renowned site of Bolton Abbey.
The combined C & D party led by Brian Joynson will walk a section of the Dales Way using the riverside path along the Wharfe, to the lovely village of Burnsall (pub here). The walking is easy with a good footpath along the Dales Way. On the way we pass the impressive Strid, where the river runs in a deep narrow cutting which is possible, if unadvisable, to stride across. From Burnsall the coach will take the D party to Grassington, the quaint ‘capital’ of Upper Wharfedale, where there is plenty of interest to explore. The C party will continue along the Wharfe to finish at Grassington.
The B party led by Mike Everill will walk part of the Dales Way and then ascend Simons Seat via the Valley of Desolation, (don’t be put of by the name it is wonderful walking), before descending to Appletreewick. The party will then rejoin the Dales Way proceeding via Burnsall and Hebden to Grassington.
Walking boots or stout shoes and waterproofs are required for the walks. A change of clothing, in case of inclement weather, should be left on the coach for the return journey. Food and drinks should be carried for the walks and you will need a picnic tea to be eaten before returning home.
The price for the coach is £10.50p per person. The coach will leave Newcastle (Blackfriars Road, rear of Morrisons) at 8am returning at approx. 9pm.
Please complete the booking form and return to Mike Everill.
Children's Walk
Sunday 14 June 2009
The Children’s Walk this year will take place at Greenway Country Park, near Knypersley Pool, meeting in the car park at the Visitor Centre at 10.0 am. There will be a nature quiz with a short walk, and pond dipping. This could be followed by a picnic lunch should the weather be suitable.
Any enquiries, please ring Margaret Bailey
Barbecue - Copeland Cottage, Maer
Sunday 19 July 2009
We have been fortunate in being able to book Copeland Cottage, Maer again for the Barbecue this year. As you will see from the programme both the B and D walks will meet at Goose St car park, Newcastle at 8.30am and 10.30am respectively. It would be advisable to double up in cars, as the parking is limited.
Don’t forget to bring your own food and drink along, and the barbecue will be ready for use on your return from the walks. Peter Johnson will respond to any queries
Holiday at the Ambassador Hotel, Scarborough
Monday 19 October to Friday 23 October 2009
59 en-suite rooms. £39.50 per person per night - £158.00. No supplement for a single room. Use of Leisure Club: Indoor Heated Pool: Sauna: Spa-Bath: Entertainment Some rooms have a sea view.
Scarborough is ideally situated on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors a wonderful walking area. The Coast to Coast Path finishes at the nearby Robins Hood Bay, and the Cleveland Way extends along the coast to the North of the resort. This will make a splendid location for an autumn break.
A deposit of £20 per person is required. Please fill in the Booking Form at the end of the newsletter and send to Margaret Bailey.
Holiday at the Queens Hotel, Llandudno
Monday 22 March to Friday 26 March 2010
We are proposing to return to the Queens Hotel for this holiday. The holiday is a month later than the very enjoyable one in 2007. There will be a full week of entertainment themes (Carnival/Extravaganza Evenings). Our previous stay had a British Isles theme.
The area has plenty of walking opportunities for all grades, including the Great Orme, Conwy Mountain, Llyn Crafnant, Aber Falls and much of Snowdonia is nearby.
Though no bookings are needed yet, I would appreciate if you could let me know of your interest. Please indicate by filling in the line on the Scarborough Booking Form, (if going), or contact Margaret Bailey by letter or telephone.
Reminders
Thursday 26 March 2009
This is an opportune time to refresh the memory and emphasise a few points.
New Members – make yourself known to the leader at the start – don’t be shy – just ask! The leader will introduce you to the rest of the party and either the leader or one of the established members will answer any queries.
Use of Cars – It is helpful to reduce the number of cars travelling to the start of the walks as there is often difficulty in finding adequate parking space, as well as being more eco-friendly. Members should arrange to pool transport at the meet and agree with the driver a contribution towards the cost of the fuel used. All drivers should take a turn in using their cars.
Availability of Pubs - With the recent closure of many pubs, it is not a certainty that there will be a pub at the lunchtime stop and members should carry sufficient liquid refreshment to cover the day. Where a pub is used, members are reminded that flasks should NOT be displayed within the grounds or on the pub premises. Do quietly point this out to any member who errs.
Grading of Walks – Leaders should always ensure that their walks are within the advertised grades. It is better to be under mileage than over mileage.
Country Code – Members should always follow the Country Code. Please ensure that all gates are re-fastened securely. Leaders should advise the party as necessary.
Walking on Roads – When walking on a road it is normal practice to use the right hand side, facing the oncoming traffic. In some instances due to circumstances on site, it may be safer to walk on the left, the leader should advise. Walkers should observe discipline, walk in a line and not spread out across the road.
Congleton to Kidsgrove Linear 'C' Walk
Thursday 26 March 2009
The above linear walk led by Allan Wells will use the 10.05 am train service from Kidsgrove to Congleton arriving at 10.12 am. The walk starts off for about a mile along the Macclesfield Canal. It then traverses a number of fields to eventually make a fairly gentle climb up to Mow Cop where we visit the Ash Inn for refreshments. After lunch the walk descends to Kidsgrove via footpaths and fields and finishing along the canal to the car park. It is about 8 miles long.
Arrive at about 9.45 am to allow time to purchase tickets and get booted up. The cost of tickets is £2.20. For any queries please ring or email Allan Wells.
YHA Weekend at Hawes
27 - 29 March 2009
Lancaster Terrace Hawes
North Yorkshire DL8 3LQ
Tel: 0845 371 9120
OS Explorer OL30, OL2/ Landranger 98 Grid Reference: 868898Overlooking Wensleydale, this modern property makes a great base for exploring the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Situated on the edge of the market town of Hawes, home of the famous Wensleydale Cheese, it is known to the Club from previous group holidays and perhaps individually from Pennine Way challenges.
There will be planned walks at Grades A and B.
Costs: Evening Meal £9.25, Bed £16.95, and Breakfast £4.65. The option to elect for self catering is available and there are other food alternatives in the village. Meal prices quoted are for meals booked and paid for in advance; for information this hostel does have a table license.
YHA Grand Tour
Sunday 26th- Friday 31st July 2009
This year we are returning to the LAKE DISTRICT for the sixth year of this popular and successful holiday. It is aimed at A walkers as walking will be mainly in the mountains and packs will have to be carried throughout the holiday. Walks will be challenging though not excessive with shorter routes available on most days. Most good walkers would be able to cope and enjoy this holiday with a suitable amount of training beforehand. If you are unsure please contact me for more info.
The format will be similar to previous years with a different YH being used each night and an A grade walk each day between hostels. This year there will be 5 hostels and 6 days of walking starting and finishing in Kendal. The full itinerary is listed below. We will only be booked into hostels on a B&B basis this year giving us the option to use other establishments where available. Packed lunches can be ordered as required.
The route is new and varied and should appeal to most walkers. In particular using the Helvelyn YH high up in the mountains and the Cockermouth YH which is off the beaten trail should be new for most people. It’s a new slant on an area which never fails to impress and given the customary good end July weather we are hoping for another holiday to savour.
Itinerary
Sun 26th July Park near Kendal and walk to Windermere YH (Troutbeck) Mon 27th July Walk to Helvellyn YH Tue 28th July Walk to Keswick YH Wed 29th July Walk to Cockermouth YH Thur 30th July Walk to Buttermere YH Fri 31st July Walk to Keswick (or Thirlmere). Bus back to Kendal then Home Car sharing will be used to get to and from the start where secure parking will be available for the duration and costs will be shared by all.
The accommodation cost will be £105 for the 5 nights but remember this does not include dinners and packed lunches as previously. To reserve a place which is limited to a maximum of 15 you need to send a deposit of £30 before the end of January to Ken Elkin.
Austrian Holiday - Article
27 August-10 September 2008
The following articles describe aspects of a holiday by 53 club members who were split between two hotels for a week both in Seefeld and Ellmau.
Hotel St. Peter, Seefeld First Week
We travelled to Manchester Airport, booked in and after a slight delay in boarding we were on our way to Austria. The landing and clearance at Salzburg was uneventful and we boarded the coach to Seefeld. A group of 31 members were left on the coach to continue to Hotel Kaltschmid, but our drop was Hotel St. Peter (Theresa) and 22 slightly weary Hanliensians entered the reception. Everything was waiting for us, we registered as a party and 11 keys were waiting on the desk for us to take our pick (If not satisfied we only had ourselves to blame) and we were informed that a buffet supper was waiting in the dining room. This was the start of a week of excellent food and friendly service including free wine/beer.Thursday 28th Aug.
Walk leaders had already been looking into walking in the area so after a short meeting with the Thompson rep, and a quick walk around the town we met for our first walks in the area. Led by Brian Joynson we set off on a circular tour up and around Seefeld Gschwandt calling at Auland for a welcome drink, easing us gently into the bigger climbs to come in the following days.Friday
Gordon Davenport took us on a picturesque route from Seefeld in a northerly direction following the path via Schlossberg Hill to GieBenbach continuing to Scharnitz and returning by train.Saturday
We set off by funicular railway and cable car to Seefelder Joch. Margaret Johnson and I had every intention of just taking in the views and having lunch then returning. However, with encouragement we joined the small party led by Frank & Cynthia Devlin to climb the spectacular path to Seefelder Spitze and carry on across the scree slope to Reither Spitze. We returned via a steep rocky path to the cable car. Back at the funicular station we had a well earned drink.Sunday
Gordon Lancaster took us on a leisurely walk over the Mosern meadows to Lake Moserer See. The path led us through the forest where we stopped for lunch, returning to Seefeld via Wildmoossee.Monday
A large party led by Bill Locker boarded the train to Mittenweld. After walking through the town and forests we arrived at the mountain spirit gorge trail. The route is traversed by an amazing steel trail bolted to the ravine wall high above the stream passing over foaming rapids, cascades and cliffs, meeting ghosts, goblins and gremlins on the way. Slightly damp but a super day.Tuesday
The forecast not being too good a small party left for Innsbruck where the sun decided to shine. After visiting the old town we took the funicular railway to Nordpark for lunch. A brief trip in the cable car to Hafelekarspitze allowed us to walk at leisure and take in the views of the city and the mountains.All this and we still had a week at Ellmau to look forward to. Truly a week of wonderful weather, walking, scenery and company for my first club holiday abroad, my sincere thanks to all involved.
Chris Wilkes.
SportHotel Ellmau - Second Week
Leaving Seefeld we arrived in Ellmau at lunchtime. After getting sorted out in the appropriate hotels, 22 in The SportHotel and 31 in the Alpenhof Hotel, we took the normal guided tour around the town. This was after informing the rep that the idea of doing the tour the next morning was unacceptable as it would impinge on one of our full day walks.
Thursday
Two walks were on offer, the shorter one was along the ridge to Soll and the more adventurous chose to take the walk offered by the information bureau, the guide a stand-in for Tarzan. His party piece was to have schnapps within his walking poles and everyone in the party had a sample. This turned out to be quite a good walk to the Gruttenhutte that had beer and a good selection of food including apple strudel.Friday
quite a number of members took advantage of the trip to Hitler’s lair, the Eagles Nest, which was in the mountains above Berchtesgaden. It turned out to be a trip well worth taking. There were special coaches to take us up the mountain to the tunnel and lift to the actual building. The lift was lined with shiny copper to make it look larger as Hitler suffered from claustrophobia. Surprisingly there were no bedrooms and Hitler had never slept there. The furniture had been removed as souvenirs by American soldiers except for one large dresser made from one piece of wood which was obviously too large to move. The large fireplace had been damaged by soldiers chipping off pieces as souvenirs.Saturday
Another fine day with several different walks completed in the area. Parties explored the rugged limestone landscape to the North and others the more rolling country to the South, which is used extensively by skiers in the winter, having a large number of lifts and tows. The very efficient funicular was used to gain height and enabled linear walks to be completed.Sunday
mini-buses were used to take the participants to the beginning of the walk. This day was the worst weather of the holiday with continuous rain and low cloud. After progressing to a waterfall the decision was made to turn back. This was the day we found a real mountain hut, complete with an old guardian, who spoke no English but managed to serve us beer and welcome hot goulash soup.Monday
if having a trip to Kitzbuhel, the Kitzbuhel Horn is a must; this was duly achieved using the cable car for most of the way. Some had fun when their tickets would not open the gates, because we had not ascended in the prescribed manner. The confused operatives opened the gates for us.Tuesday
virtually everyone walked in the same area, the three walks meeting at the very picturesque Hintersteinersee Lake; perhaps the prettiest walk of the holiday. That evening we enjoyed listening to the town brass band and then followed as the band marched to the dispersal point; it would seem only the English ‘follow the band’!Wednesday
All to soon it was time to return and before joining the coach for the airport transfer, we gave our thanks to Brian for arranging this wonderful holiday.Peter Johnson
An Overall View
I decided at the start of the holiday that I would do the A walks whenever the weather was good. This caused me to do high-level routes on all but two days, first among the white limestone peaks of the Seefelder Alps and in the similar mountains above the Lautasch Valley. We had wonderful scree paths, a scary descent down a steep traverse, on marbles at times, and marvellous views.
The second week at first looked to be an anti-climax, but we had a long, hard day on the west side of the Wilder Kaiser Steig (WKS) and followed this with the highlight of the holiday: an interesting route up to the Gruttenhutte and continuing east on the WKS, climbing ladders and hanging on to wire ropes as we rounded cliff faces, while we stood on pins and hoops hammered into the rock.
Thanks go to Brian for arranging a splendid holiday and to all the leaders of the walks, who encouraged some of our party to push their boundaries.
Mike Everill
Social Evening With Our Senior Members
St Wulstan's Church Hall, Wolstanton
Friday 3 October 2008
Over 70 members attended this social evening allowing many senior members to make and renew friendships. Many of the senior members had not met for many years and it was heartening to see so many smiling faces as they recognised and greeted old friends.
After allowing a time for conversation, Dave Joynson started the evening entertainment by singing some popular songs, with his guitar, and the assembled party joined in the chorus.
This was followed by John Walley, a George Formby tribute entertainer who enthralled us with a potted history of George’s life, interspersed with several songs, whilst playing the familiar banjo. The whole performance was very professional and we were all left wanting more.
Time, however, did not allow and the party commenced to take their fill from the sumptuous buffet provided by members. The amount, variety and quality of the food on display was wonderful and was consumed with relish. Many thanks to all those who contributed to this feast. The evening concluded with a sing-along directed and accompanied by Dave Joynson.
All to soon it was time for Bill Locker to propose a vote of thanks to all those who had made the evening such a success, with a particular mention of Dave and Brian Joynson and Peter Johnson who had all made a considerable contribution.
Additional Thursday Walks
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting
Tuesday 3 March 2009
The Chairman welcomed 60 members to the meeting and thanked everyone for coming.
Apologies
were received from Hazel & Andrew Waters, Gordon Lancaster and Anita Callan, Mike & Sue Everill, Chris & Dave Fowler, Margaret Finney, Mary Kirkham, Gordon Jones, Gordon & Pat Davenport, Anne Jepson, Freda & Tom Roberts, Shelagh Evans, Jean Bowen, Maureen Sherwin, Dave Joynson, Peter Cartlidge, Sheila Smith, Brian & Mary Simpson, Val Hiles and Tony Lockett.Minutes of the last meeting were read and approved.
Matters Arising
There were no matters arising.
Treasurers Report
The Treasurer presented his Income & Expenditure Statement. There were overall losses of £382, which involved coach rambles, social events and the Symonds Yat holiday, where two members backed out and didn’t pay up. He recommended that the annual subscription remain unchanged. As there were no questions, the Chairman thanked Joe for his efforts and the meeting agreed his recommendation.
Election of Officers
The Chairman said he was willing to continue for the third year in office, and Bill Locker was duly proposed, seconded and elected. Bill moved to the election of officers. Prior to being nominated the General Secretary said she would not be standing for re-election at the next AGM. Before asking for nominations for the Walks Secretary position the Chairman explained that it had been agreed in Committee that the role of Walks Secretary would be changed to act as a co-ordinator heading a team of volunteers organising the various grades of walks. This was to help reduce the workload on the holder in compiling the walks programme.
Bill then moved to the election of officers and after being proposed and seconded the following were elected:
Vice Chairman John Brereton Walks Secretary Mike Everill Treasurer Joe Moore Social Secretary Peter Johnson General Secretary Marion Walshaw Publicity Officer Margaret Bailey Memb. Secretary Bill Finney Web Master Mike Everill Auditor Pat Davenport It was noted that the Constitution did not preclude a member from holding two posts.
Ordinary Members
Nominations for the Committee were then requested and twelve names were put forward. Following a ballot, the following ten were elected:
Jean Challinor Liz Dodd Ken Elkin Brian Joynson Joyce Rawlinson Nigel Shaw Ashley Steadman Barrie Tunnicliffe Hilary Walker Bill Walshaw Social Secretary's report
Peter reported that the social events in the past year had been very successful. Everyone enjoyed the new venue, Ramada for the Annual Dinner/Dance, which has been booked for 2010. A visit to Pipes in the Peak was being arranged. The next Photo Competition would be on 5 November. He welcomed ideas for future social events.
He then referred to Margaret Bailey for information on forthcoming holidays. Margaret said that details of the holiday to Scarborough, staying at the Ambassador Hotel in October, would be in the next newsletter. There would also be details of a possible holiday at the Queens Hotel, Llandudno from 22-26 March 2010. She pointed out that although this was more than a year away, she needed to know the level of interest, to ensure sufficient places were available.
Walks Secretary's Report
In the absence of a Walks Secretary, Bill Walshaw reported that the Club had completed over 150 programmed walks during the last twelve months, and with holidays and weekends breaks, the total walks were over 180 for the year. Most of these walks had been arranged by Bernard Heath and he thanked Bernard on behalf of the Club for his work as Walks Secretary. Members showed their appreciation with a round of applause.
Moving on to the future Bill said that the level of support for coach rambles was a cause of concern. He said that on the next programme a coach ramble to Wharfedale was being considered for 21st June, and asked for a show of hands to indicate likely support. The resulting count was well below expectations. Comments from the floor regarding changing facilities were noted, but these were mainly relevant to the Christmas coach trip.
Bill went on to thank the footpath working group for their efforts over the past year. He asked Club members to report problems on footpaths to Staffs. County Council. The more complaints that were registered the more likely the problem would be resolved.
He then noted that the Hanley meeting point at Castle St. car park was becoming congested due to attendance at the nearby market, and there was also developments on the adjacent old Unity House site. An alternative meeting point would be considered.
Any Other Business
Bill Webb wondered if the telephone numbers of leaders could be put on the programme. It was pointed out that the Club preferred members to meet and car share rather than drive direct to site. Leaders telephone numbers were held by the General and Walks Secretaries but some were ex-directory.
It was pointed out that the matter of making a charitable donation rather than sending Christmas cards had been discussed at Committee, and it was decided that it was a matter of personal choice.
Audrey said she would like to express her appreciation for the Senior Members Evening held last October, which she and many old members had very much enjoyed.
The meeting closed at 9.30 pm.
