|
Hanliensian Rambling Club |
| Editor: | Allan Wells |  |
| Archived Newsletters in Word Document Form |
Notes and Stop Press
I hope you had a rambling good Summer. Like last year it was a bit mixed weather wise. It was fine for the barbecue with only a short shower when most of us dived into the Club’s new Gazebo to shelter; see below for hiring this. Unlike last time the Cotswold Way coach ramble was comparatively fine with just a short drenching near the end. The Pie and Pea Supper was very popular with about 60 walkers queuing at the first stile. But afterwards all went well and was enjoyed by everyone.
From the list of contents on the front cover you will see that we have again a bumper bundle of events for you to consider and several interesting articles on past events.
There will be the usual Spring holidays; a midweek one to Tywyn in Wales and a YHA weekend in Conwy. It is also proposed to have two Summer Club Holidays; one to Andalucia in Spain and the other to Austria. Details of these appear later.
Do you fancy doing the whole of the Shropshire Way and becoming a Shropshire Buzzard? Or how about doing a double C walk to a Youth Hostel? See details later.
Alan Ratcliffe is organising a visit to Hanley Fire Station on 14th March 2012
We welcome new member Joan Taylor of Longton. We look forward to seeing you on walks and other events.
The Club Committee have considered the problems some members are experiencing in not getting on events due to them becoming quickly oversubscribed. The Committee has some sympathy for these members, but there does not appear to be any better solution than to deal with bookings on a first come first served basis. It is advisable to book for key events, on receipt of the Newsletter, to avoid disappointment.
Hire of Club Gazebo/Marquee: Members can hire the above which was featured at the Club Barbecue for £10.00. It is 6 metres by 3 metres. Just contact Peter Johnson to make arrangements for collection and return.
New Venue for Committee and AGM Meetings: Longton Rugby Club, Trentham Fields, Eastern Rise, Off Stanley Matthews Way, Trentham Lakes, Stoke on Trent, ST4 8GR. Telephone: 01782 594016 www.longtonrugby.co.uk
Allan Wells
Editor
1st to 8th May 2012
At the time of the Newsletter only draft details of the above holiday are available. It will not be a package holiday. A member of the Club who works in Spain for a holiday company, has offered to help us put our own holiday together. At the time of writing, we can get a flight from Manchester to Malaga for everyone at an inclusive price of £180.00.
We will be staying in the recommended 2 star Hotel Zuhayra in the village of Zuheros. The cost per day for bed, breakfast and evening meal is £35.00 per person. Transfers from the Potteries to Manchester and Malaga to Zuheros and return will be arranged at extra cost.
The village is on the fringe of the Sierra Subbetica Natural Park where some of the terrain can be hilly and rocky. See the pictures on the back cover. Visits to nearby Cordoba and Granada could be arranged. For more information “Google” the following: Zuheros - Tour Highlights of Andalucia - Independent Valleys of Cordoba - Hotel Zuhayra - Headwater Holidays.
This holiday is now fully booked
August 2012
A two-centre walking holiday, with one week at Lech and another week in Mayrhofen, is being investigated for August 2012. Lech offers a free Resort Card which includes use of the 2 gondolas, 2 chairlifts, walkers’ buses and swimming pools.
This holiday is now fully booked
Mike Everill
Wednesday 19th October 2011
A Chinese meal has been arranged at the Cauldon College Atrium Restaurant where the catering students cook and serve the food as part of their training. There is a limit of thirty six places and you should therefore book early to avoid disappointment.
Menu
Starters
Sweet corn and chicken soup
or
Spring Rolls with a sweet chilli dipping sauce
*******************************Main Course
Beef and black bean sauce
or
Chicken in ginger sauce
or
Mushrooms and bamboo shoots
------------------------------------------------All the above accompanied with Pakchoi, Fried Rice & Prawn Crackers
or
A full Vegetarian option
*******************************Sweets
Citrus Pancakes
or
Ice cream sundae
*******************************Followed by lemon tea and fortune cookies
Price per person £9.50
Drinks including wine can be purchased from the bar at a reasonable price
If you wish to go, please fill in the Booking Form in this Newsletter and send it with your cheque to Peter Johnson. As noted earlier there are only 36 places available, so it will be first come first served. Please note that, where possible Peter will e-mail applicants to confirm booking form receipt. If you do not receive such confirmation within about one week or do not have e-mail please contact Peter Johnson
8pm Thursday 10 November 2011
Catholic Club, Newcastle
Once again it is time to sift through your prized photographs in an attempt to win our prestigious trophies. Please note the new venue which is next to Holy Trinity Church and benefits from having its own car park at the rear of the premises. There is a bar and a free buffet will again be provided after the judging.
Entries will be accepted as digital files or prints. The former should be entered on a CD or sent by internet to my e-mail address below. The latter will be scanned for display on a large screen on the night. We have again secured the use of a modern digital projector which should give us large true images for all to enjoy. This year a new trophy has been donated by our Chairman to encompass outdoor shots not taken on Club events. Please note that in the first category below only photos taken on Club events are eligible. There are no such restrictions on the other 3 categories.
1 The Paul Rey Trophy for the best photo illustrating the spirit of rambling taken on a Club walk or Club holiday. 2 The Broadhurst Trophy for the best photo of flora and fauna. 3 Chairman’s Trophy for best photo depicting the Great Outdoors 4 Special award for the most amusing photo. A maximum of eight entries per member in total is allowed which should all have been taken within the last three years. These eight can be all for one competition or can be split as desired between the first three categories above. A further two photos can be submitted in the Humorous category. Please indicate which category you wish to enter a photo by FF (for Flora & Fauna), SR (for Spirit of Rambling), GO (for Great Outdoors) or HU (for Humorous). Write on back of print or incorporate into file/directory name as appropriate. On landscape views it would be useful if the location is disclosed for the judge to use in his commentary. Please note that cropping and colour enhancement of digital images is allowed but any removing or inserting of features is not.
After the judging there will be a small buffet provided by the Club which will give the opportunity to socialise for the final hour. Our resident photographic expert Martin Kessell has again kindly agreed to do the judging and always provides an illuminating and amusing evening. Do try to come along to enjoy this popular event..
Send your entries to Ken Elkin by Thursday 3rd November. Please ensure the disc is “finalised” so that it can be read by another computer. I will acknowledge receipt of entries so please check your e-mails. A written list of entries by category would be useful to avoid any confusion.
Saturday 5th November 2011 at 8.00 pm
Once again a pig roast & party dance has been arranged at Weston Coyney Village Hall. This is a very popular annual occasion for Club members and friends. The Roy Peters Sound will again provide the music. A date not to be missed.
Tickets are £8.50 per person and are available on most walks from committee members. Please bring your own drinks and glasses. Contact Peter Johnson should you require further information.
Thursday 15th December 2011
The walk will start at the above pub at 10.00 am, to enable us to be back in time for the meal at 1.30 pm. The walk will be about five miles. Members wishing to come for the meal only are welcome, particularly non-walking members. Please book early to avoid disappointment.
Menu
Main Course
Roast Beef
Roast Turkey
Steak and Kidney Pie
Fresh Salmon with Parsley Sauce
Vegetarian Option of the Day
*****************************Deserts
Chocolate Fudge Cake
Apple Crumble and Custard
Treacle Sponge
Banana Split
Ice CreamThe cost of the meal is £9.50 for two courses (including tips). Please fill in the form in this Newsletter and send it with your payment to Gordon Davenport.
Sunday 4th December 2011
This year’s event will again take place in the Matlock and Cromford area of Derbyshire and it is hoped, but not promised, that the weather will be kinder to us than last year. After the favourable response to the venue for last year’s meal we will again be dining at the Greyhound Hotel in Cromford.
We will depart Newcastle (Blackfriars Road) at 8.00 am. The two walks, A and C will be led by John Butler and John Critchlow respectively. A joint lunchtime pub stop will be provided for liquid refreshment and the traditional carols. The Coach will be available to pick up those members who choose not to complete the afternoon section of the walks and will drop them off back in Cromford early afternoon.
Two rooms will be available in the Hotel from early afternoon for those who wish to "freshen up" prior to dining. Please bring a change of clothes, towel and the appropriate toiletries.
It is anticipated that both walks will finish circa 4.00 pm with the Party sitting down to Dinner at 5.30 pm. The coach will depart on the return journey to Newcastle at circa 7.30 pm. The cost of the trip is £29.50 per person.
This covers all of the following:
Three Course Meal plus Tea/Coffee and mince pies
Return Coach Travel
Use of Rooms in Hotel to change etc.
Gratuities to Hotel Staff and Driver.Menu
Starters
Chefs home-made white onion and thyme soup, truffle oil and home made bread. (v)
The Greyhound prawn cocktail with a bloody mary dressing.
Chicken liver parfait with red onion and cranberry compote and toasted brioche.
Beetroot textures, goats cheese bon bon and lemon oil. (v)
***********************************Main Course
Roast Norfolk turkey served with all the trimming's and goose fat chateaux potatoes.
Herb crusted cod with ribbon vegetables and a lemon butter sauce.
Gnocchi with spinach walnuts and asparagus in a tarragon cream sauce finished with Parmesan.
All served with fresh seasonal vegetables and potatoes.
Deserts Locally made Christmas pudding served with a brandy sauce.
A dark chocolate brownie, rum cream and pistachio praline.
A selection of cheeses from the British isles served with biscuits, home made chutney, grapes and celery.
***********************************Tea or Coffee and mince pie.
If you wish to go on this trip please complete the booking form elsewhere in the newsletter indicating your meal choices and return to Ashley Steadman, Walks coordinator, no later than Monday 14 November. Please note that, where possible Ashley will e-mail applicants to confirm booking form receipt. If you do not receive such confirmation within about one week or do not have e-mail please contact Ashley Steadman.
Friday 20th January 2012 7.00 pm for 7.30 pm
It seems that everything comes around so quickly that here we are again thinking about our annual dinner dance. It was a really very enjoyable night last time and wonderful to see so many of you there. I hope that we will have many new members joining us at our next dinner dance. If you need anything special for dietary reasons and you cannot use the menu given, please ring me. Don’t forget you may bring a guest or friends, so state who you want to be with on your table which can hold up to twelve.
To add to the enjoyment of the evening, we will be dancing to the Roy Peters Sound. Any raffle prizes will be appreciated. I look forward to seeing you there.
Margaret Bailey, Chairman
Menu
Starter
Leek and Potato Soup
or
Duck and Orange Pâté with Melba Toast
**************************************Main Course
Loin of Pork with Apple & Brandy Sauce
or
Breast of Chicken with usual Roasts
or
Baked Halibut with Spinach, peas & saffron sauce
**************************************Deserts
Profiteroles
or
Fruit Salad & Ice cream
or
Cheese & Biscuits
***************************************Tea or Coffee & Mints
The cost is £20.00. Please state who you would wish to sit by, or on a singles table. Every effort will be made to suit your seating request. Please complete the Booking Form in this Newsletter and send with your payment to Margaret Bailey.
The Ramada Hotel is situated on Clayton Road (A519 Eccleshall Road, from Newcastle) on the right just past the traffic lights and the Gatehouse Public House. From the car park, the entrance is to the right, marked ‘Ballroom’, not the main entrance.
2012 - 2013
Membership of the Hanliensians allows people who enjoy exploring the great outdoors on foot to join with others to tackle expeditions which they might not otherwise do on their own.
Most of us have walked along parts of the Shropshire Way but few will have done the complete round including the North Shropshire Plain and Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The purpose of this note is to see if there may be interest to walk about 140 miles from Wem to Wem by means of thirteen separate walks varying in length between 9 and 12 miles at a reasonably leisurely pace.
The walks would take place once a month after and before the clocks change to maximise use of daylight hours. A draft programme has been prepared for consideration and to assist detailed planning. The programme would commence on Thursday 29 March 2012 and generally on the third Thursday of the month thereafter.
The highlights for the year 2012 include Wem, Shawbury, The Wrekin, The Ironbridge Gorge, Much Wenlock and Wenlock Edge, Corvedale and Brown Clee, Titterstone Clee, Ludlow, Stokesay Castle and Craven Arms, Hopesay Hill and Clun.
The highlights for the year 2013 include Bishop’s Castle, The Stiperstones, north of the Long Mynd, Lyth Hill, Shrewsbury, Haughmond Abbey, Grinshill and back to Wem.
A commitment by one other person and car is enough to make the project viable. Additional participants are welcome. It then becomes a matter of logistical planning to balance the number of cars with drivers and passengers, to carry out the series of linear walks in an efficient and effective manner.
If you wish to throw your hat in the ring and allow detailed planning to proceed, then please fill in the form in this Newsletter and return it by Sunday 20th November 2011.
Please ring me or contact me by email if you require any further information.Brian Davies
27th to 29th April 2012
Conwy YHA, Larkhill, Sychant Pass Road, Conwy, LL32 8AJ,
Situated on a hill with panoramic views of the ancient castle and walls of Conwy, this Spring’s youth hostel is an ideal base from which to explore the mountains and coastal resorts of North Wales. The town centre with its pubs, tea shops and local attractions are just 10 minutes walk away.
The walking options include the nearby Carnedd mountains and various walks to be had in the Conwy valley and local coastal areas. Any offers for walks leadership will be welcome for the usual A+B grades. Any offers for C walks would also be welcome as we would like to attract more members to come along on these weekends.
There are eight 2 person bed rooms* and sixteen 4 person bed rooms available for this visit. Note* The availability of the 2 person bed rooms can not be guaranteed so they will be allocated on a first come first serve basis. The hostel has all the usual facilities for self catering if you wish. It also has an alcohol licence.
If anybody would like to find out a bit more about these Youth Hostel events just contact me by phone or e-mail.
Please fill in the booking form provided in the paper Newsletter and send with cheque by the 23rd November to Bernard Heath.
Just a note asking if there are any C walkers who may be interested in having a double C walk weekend sometime next summer. This weekend involves two C grade linear walks with an overnight stop at a youth hostel. This is the same weekend that the club has been organising for some time now, with great success, for the grades of double A.
No definite plans have been laid out yet, that will be left to the new year and to the amount of interest that I receive from this note. I will of course answer any questions about this weekend on any of the walks that I attend or over the phone.
Bernard Heath
4 - 5 June 2011
Saturday
We arrived at peak forest with eight intrepid walkers. Off we headed up to ridge of Mam Tor, which was extremely busy as it was a lovely sunny morning. We made our way up to Lose Hill and then down to Hope Valley continuing to Bradwell for our lunch stop at the pub.After lunch we ascended to Abney Moor Plateau, traversing across to the village of Abney. We then went down a long wooded hill to Abney Clough. Climbing up to William Hill onto the ridge we were overlooking Eyam, our first days trek nearly over. Down we dropped through woodland to the sight of an old Victorian folly, which was to be our shelter for the night. At the Hostel we met up with Ashley who was to join us for the Sunday walk. After showering we set off for the Miners Arms for dinner. A lovely meal was had by all, although three of the gang felt short-changed on the chips as they did not get enough!
Sunday
We all set off nice and early after a good hearty breakfast. We took a route out through the village which was very interesting as there was plenty of information outside the houses about the plague in 1665. The view as we left Eyam for Stonely Middleton was delightful!We then dropped to Coombe Dale and took an elevated route up out of the dale arriving at High Rake. Following a route over access land we entered Longstone Moor and from there we made our way to Foolow. Here we had a grand laugh watching a herd of cows chasing a balloon. Our next stop was at the Queens Arms, a bit late but very welcome. After our refreshments it was off again on the last leg which took us up to High Rake and Tideswell Rake. Following Tideswell Moor, we arrived back at Peak Forest and the welcome sight of our cars.
A Fantastic weekend made possible by Bernard Heath, who organised the trip and John Butler who led the walks, assisted by Bernard. Well Done Lads!
Dave Chilton (and all the Gang)
Sunday 26th June 2011
On the first decent Sunday of the year around 25 of us (including about 15 children) met up with Margaret Bailey for a lovely interesting walk with a little quiz to find out what we had learned. One family included members from 4 generations! (Actually there was only 14 children but someone tried to put reins on little Elsie as we were going close to water!)
We found a pond, and spent a joyous half hour fishing for newts (much maligned for their drinking habits - I wonder what is in the water???) and various other mini prehistoric looking creatures. Photos were taken and we then proceeded to the walk around the pool with our list of questions. (One Child approached me, with my two sticks and sunglasses, and asked me if I was blind!) Rare orchids (don’t pick!) bark rubbings and leaves were identified and collected for further appraisal later.
Dave Hollins had his photo taken outside the snack bar with a big model bear. (To those of you who haven’t yet seen it he’s the one with the funny sunglasses).
Carrying on around the lake we saw jaunty little boats with bright white sails scudding across the water in the sunlight. We arrived back at our starting point to sweet treats - some had a picnic. I had a lovely ice cream cornet - strawberry flavour in a chocolate tipped cone…………….
So many thanks to Margaret for trying to teach those of us (most of us really) who didn’t know our Foxgloves from our Coltsfoot (Coltsfeet?//?). It was a super morning and a lot of work must have gone into the preparation.
(I didn’t know Dragonflies laid their eggs in water - perhaps that’s why they don‘t breath fire anymore).
Jane Rushton
Photos: click Recent Events button on the Home page
Wednesday 3rd August 2011
On a very hot and sultry evening, almost sixty members arrived at the Raddle Inn to be met by John Brereton and his helpers Dave and Barbara Spragg who had the car parking sorted out for us.
The walk was about three miles long and took us to Croxden Abbey and back. A very nice walk, although I thought going over the first stile we would not make the Abbey before dark. Sixty members negotiating this stile did slow the start down, but it all turned out fine in the end.
Members were rather sweaty on the return to the pub and I am sure they enjoyed a nice cold drink as much as I did. The staff at the pub were to be commended for their very efficient service; to serve sixty meals as quick as they did was fantastic. I had the steak pie which, I might add, was delicious and I think everyone enjoyed their meal as much as I did.
The pub is in a lovely area and John made a great choice of venue; I think everyone would agree on that. Can I and all the walking club members thank John, Dave, and Barbara for their efforts as these get together's don’t just happen. Thank you all.
Big Dave (getting smaller) Hollins. Look forward now to Skipton and another great experience.
Sunday 10th July 2011
Sunday 10th July 2011 saw the annual Hanliensian summer barbecue at Oakamoor, which I am sure you all agree, makes an excellent venue with a large flat grassy area, for us to gather. The surrounding trees make a lovely backdrop.
Dave Cooper led the D walk and Ashley Steadman the B walk. It always seems a bit unfair that those who have expended the most energy should arrive last for their refreshments! It works well as it does spread the demands on the barbecue.
The weather was fine although it went from feeling cool to warm in seemingly a few minutes. Luckily the rain held off to just about 3.00 pm, when good use was made of the gazebo on its first outing.
Thanks to Peter and his helpers for their work in setting up the barbecue and gazebo and making it a special event in the year’s programme of events.
(Ed.)
Sunday 18th September 2011
A Walk
The A walk started at Crickley Hill, rounded the site of the iron-age hill fort and Neolithic causeway, before heading into the woods near Birdlip to follow the C walkers. We caught them up while they rested after the steep climb onto Cooper’s Hill. A mile-long detour took us off the Way and down to Cranham for lunch and a pint or two in the Black Horse, allowing us to miss the heavy rain.Rejoining the Way we continued in the woods to emerge on Painswick Golf Course and had a break on Painswick Beacon, but threatening weather sent us on our way to Painswick village, the Queen of the Cotswolds.
C Walk
We were dropped off at St. Georges Hotel, Birdlip. There were 13 in the group, and all were in good spirits as weather was fair. We walked through a pleasant wooded area, before stopping in fields for coffee overlooking Whitcombe Reservoir with beautiful views.We later came to Coopers Hill, famous for its cheese rolling competition; this year it was cancelled for the first time due to health and safety regulations. As we climbed up to the top of this very steep hill and could see the sheer drop, it was apparent how mad the folks were to even attempt to do it. We had our dinner-break here, looking at the fantastic views towards Gloucester. The A group passed through where we were sitting, on there way to a pub break in Cranham.
We continued our walk to Prinknash Abbey, which is still used by the monks and we went into the Chapel which was very peaceful. The grave markers in the Cemetery were ornately carved wooden crosses. By this time, the rain had started, so we donned our wet-weather gear and headed towards Painswick Beacon, which was reached by crossing the golf course. From the trigpoint at its highest peak we had wonderful views over to the Severn estuary. We were nearing the end of the walk in the midst of sun and heavy showers when we arrived at the nineteenth hole just as a rainbow appeared. End of the walk, most enjoyable.
Jean, Carol and Pam.
D Walk
After travelling from Newcastle the D walkers, 13 ladies & 3 men left the coach at the monastery cafe at Prinknash and after coffee, cake & such delights we started our short ramble. Although we couldn't go into the abbey (a service was just finishing) we had a look around the area. Then continued our walk through Popes Wood & rested at Painswick Beacon - wonderful panoramic views of the Severn estuary, Gloucester cathedral etc. There we had a leisurely banana stop in the sun & took some photos. Then we carried on our way to the golf club.There was plenty of time so we changed out of our walking boots & headed off to Painswick, a typical Cotswold village, very pretty with some interesting buildings (shame the shops were all closed though!!!) After some time we all headed back to the golf club, unfortunately the heavens opened & we all got a good soaking! We dried off at the club house & waited for the A & C walkers, then had our picnic tea on the coach & a safe journey home.
Thanks Dave for all your hard work & all the laughs too.
KateThanks to all the walk leaders Mike Everill, John Brereton and Dave Hollins.
31 August -10 September 2011
Kandersteg is a village south of Bern, the Capital in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, surrounded by high mountains of nearly 4000 metres. Its main industry is Dairy farming and is noted as being the home of the International Scout Centre.
A party of twenty one left Newcastle at half past five on Wednesday morning to catch the 8.40am flight from Manchester to Zurich. This departed on time and we then had a long journey on a comfortable, almost silent train, arriving at Kandersteg around 5.00pm.
The Hotel seemed fine and after everyone had inspected their rooms, there were no complaints. There was a meeting with the Inghams representative, Alison, at which we were given information, maps and brochures. Alison also had a file of walks, most of which she had done, for us to browse through. At 7.30 we had our first meal in the pleasant dining room hosted by Claudia and Gerhard the owners. This set the standard, for the meal was excellent, as were the rest of the meals. After the meal we met in the Chimney room to plan the walks for the following day; most people then retired early to their rooms, where the cases, last seen at Manchester had arrived.
The table below shows the walks:
Day Activity Leaders Transport or Lift Thursday Gemmi Pass/ Some to Daubensee / others to the top of the pass Frank / Bill Free bus / Sunnbüel Friday Selden,1 group to Kanderfirn Glacier / others walk down the gorge to Kandersteg Bill / Frank Hired bus Saturday Oechinensee lake / Allmenalp, climb a further 2100ft / Walk down to Kandersteg Frank / Bill / Paul Oeschinen/ Allmenalp Sunday 2 groups walk to Frutigen each side of the river Weather overcast with some rain Bill / Frank Post bus back Monday Fafleralp 1 group walk to Wiler / others to the Anenhutte Frank / Bill Train / Post bus Tuesday Oechinensee lake / Blumlisalphutte Paul / Bill Oeschinen Wednesday Gallihorn Peak / Panoramic walk Bill / Paul Bus / Sunnbüel Thursday Leukerbad Gemmi Pass / Doldenhornhutte / Group to Thun Frank / Paul / Margaret J. Leukerbad / Sunnbüel / Train Friday Brandspitz / Doldenhutte / Adelboden Oey Engstligen falls. Mülenen to Niesen Bill / Frank/ Paul Allmenalp / Bus / Train / Funicular Tea, coffee and cakes were served from 4-5pm for those who managed to get back in time.
The weather overall was very good, bright and sunny, however on Sunday and Monday the cloud base was very low so it was decided not to go high. On Sunday both groups walked alongside the river to Frutigen, but on different sides; the highlight for Bill's group was watching the local Soap Box Derby, the weather cleared up later. On Monday, still overcast in the morning, Paul's group went to the spectacular Enstiglen falls and climbed to a viewing platform for a photo shoot. The way back from the falls was a very demanding climb which seemed never ending, but we all managed it without too much fuss.
Looking back to all the walks, there were some demanding climbs and descents, and despite all the walking and scrambling up and down the rocks and crossing the screes, there were only two slight accidents to my knowledge; Pauline’s elbow, and Margaret’s foot and knee. These were soon cleared up with Cynthia’s medical chest, with Edna’s as back up.
Prices are high in Switzerland; I got 1.23 Swiss franks to the pound. Most of our money was spent on travel. We were issued with a visitors card, which gave free travel on the local bus and a Swiss Travel Systems half fare card to use on the trains, buses and cable cars. A return ticket on the Kandersteg to Sunnbüel cable car was 14.50 franks a rail ticket to Thun with a sail on the lake and return from Spiez was 29 franks, a trip from Kandersteg to Frutigen was 5.20 franks, and these were with the half price pass. A bottle of wine at the table was from 25-30 franks.
A collection was made for the staff and was presented to them by Bill Locker in which he thanked them for their excellent service throughout the holiday. He also thanked Bill Walshaw and the other walks leaders for all the effort they had put in, and especially Bill for organising the holiday; he also presented a thank you card signed by all the group, as Bill requested.
Saturday morning saw our departure for home leaving on the 11.20am train to Zurich airport where we had a long wait before we caught the Lufthansa plane to Manchester.
We must again thank Bill for all his efforts in organising the holiday, in which all the arrangements ran so smoothly, and also the walks leaders Bill, Frank and Paul for their efforts and skills in sorting out interesting and carefree walking for the rest of us.
Pete Hand
4th to 8th April 2011
Monday - Most of the seventy members turned up at the hotel at approximately 2 pm and shortly after collected their room keys. The chairperson, Margaret Bailey, was one of the last to be allocated her room and the long wait did not bring particularly good news; her room was not one of the best. Talking of the best, one couple, who shall be nameless, landed in the spacious honeymoon suite with a four poster bed, large leather settee and a bathroom big enough to hold a party. The couple in question did tend to rub it in to the lesser mortals. However, most members were very satisfied with their rooms.
In the evening there was dancing and musical entertainment in the lounge.Tuesday - Paul Heathcote and Hazel Waters led the A walk to Whitbarrow, which is the escarpment on the right a few miles before getting to Grange over Sands. Having climbed to the top the mist thickened. Hazel and Paul did well to find the way across the moor.
Brian Joynson, walking from the hotel, led the C and D’s to Cartmel, hoping to take in the Infirmary Tower and Cartmel Priory. The walk through the Priory grounds was achieved before lunch. However, due to the very poor weather, the Tower idea was abandoned, the majority choosing to catch the bus back to Grange. A few hardy souls did walk back to the hotel. Not the greatest day for weather, but this would become better as the week progressed.
In the spacious ballroom in the evening, Peter Jackson provided a 60’s music quiz; which proved, when the scores were checked, that some members had been music-loving teenagers.Wednesday - After two damp and dismal days, leader Bill Locker was pleased to see the sun emerge as he led the “Cheadle Mafia” on the six mile Whitbarrow Scar C walk from Witherslack Farm. Pleasant walking through a wooded but wet valley, was followed by a steep climb on to the superb limestone upland where panoramic views abounded. Lunch was taken near the highest point, Lords Seat at 706 feet, continuing along the ridge we gradually descended on a tricky path through woodland back to our starting point. The walk certainly lived up to Wainwright’s description of it being the ‘most beautiful in the outlying fells’.
Thursday - Frank Devlin led the A party to the top of Coniston Old Man. There was a good turn out for this as quite a few people wanted to get a mountain under their belt. Frank had promised a steady pace which enabled everyone to reach the summit without a lot of difficulty. Although the day was pleasant, it was getting chilly towards the summit. One member was feeling the cold, admitting they had committed the cardinal sin of removing their hat and gloves out of their rucksack before starting out. Moral, be prepared especially on a mountain.
The C and D walkers went to the other side of Morecambe Bay to Arnside. The C led by Gordon Lancaster and the D by Frank Devlin both headed towards Silverdale and Arnside Knott, where both parties took different routes back to the start using the shore line, with Gordon taking the longer one.
The A walk was led by Paul Heathcote, starting at Coniston climbing a little to Coniston Copper Mines and over the col towards Tillberthwaite. There was a great feeling of being in the mountains without having done any great climbing, yet still having views especially of the Langdales. The lunch stop was particularly interesting at a disused quarry with a small lake that is well known to divers. This is a lovely spot to drive out to with a large free car park which is easy accessible from Tillberthwaite. The latter part of the walk was mostly across flooded fields on the way back to Coniston.
In the evening there was dancing and musical entertainment in the lounge.
The C walk was led by Ken Elkin and started from the picturesque Newbury Bridge Hotel, with the marina at its side. This is a short walk from the southern end of Windermere, where a boat can be caught to Ambleside and Bowness. Setting off with a slight climb to the High Dam reservoir and then passing through the hamlet of Finsthwaite, before making a pleasant walk back to the hotel. Some people who missed this walk decided to visit the area on Friday before leaving for home.
In the evening Elaine Walker provided a general knowledge quiz; last years eggheads were again successful.Thanks should go to Margaret Bailey for all the work she put in to make this a very successful mini holiday. Most of the members are now looking forward to our visit to Skipton in The Yorkshire Dales in October.
John Foulkes & Peter Johnson
Friday 8th to Sunday 10th April 2011
We arrived at Lleder House independent hostel to bright sunshine and rolling hills, trees and river on the doorstep. Accommodation was more than comfortable with good facilities. We met up later with our fellow Hanliensians for drinks and food in Betsw y Coed.
As the first days walk was quite strenuous, we opted to do one of our own. Our many thanks to Bernard and Tony Lockett for their help and advice with map reading and suggestions for the surrounding area. The local Spa shop had tables and chairs outside, and sold very welcome mugs of tea/coffee after our walk. The perfect end to a memorable walk with breathtaking scenery in every direction.
Our second full day consisted or two shorter walks taking in the local castle with far reaching views to the Snowdon range.
A thoroughly brilliant weekend was had by us all. Thank you Bernard. Looking forward to the next time.
Jenny, Deepa, Margaret and Cynthia
Wednesday 25th May 2011
Forty Hanliensians gathered at Mr and Mrs Deaville's Newhouse Farm at Acton near Newcastle for an organic cheese sampling at their cheese making plant. Firstly, most of us met in a large tent, brought in for the occasion by the social secretary. We all brought chairs and portable tables and mainly wine to wash down the different varieties of cheese that Mrs Deaville brought into the tent with bread and crackers supplied by our club. Amongst our group was one of our most long standing members, Nell Sillitoe, who first joined the club way back in 1957 and until quite recently was still a very active walker and still looks in the peak of health. An excellent advertisement for the walking club.
A little later the group was split up and twenty of us went into the cheese making parlour where Mr Deaville gave us an insight into the various processes involved in making the cheese. There was a huge vat of 3000 litres capacity (more like a giant bath tub) used solely for making cheese from cows milk. There was also a smaller one nearby for making sheep's milk cheese from his own flock. Mr Deaville started making cheese around 1983; previously he used to milk his own herd of cows, but now it is more convenient for him to buy in the milk for cheese making. Next we ventured into the maturing room, where we saw how the cheese was placed on shelves to mature after being shaped by small cylindrical metal tubes. Here, it was allowed to develop its unique flavours before sale to mainly the specialist market. Afterwards we visited the farm shop where we could purchase any of the cheeses we had seen made at the farm. Olive and I chose the creamy sheep's cheese, which incidentally, we liked the best.
Many thanks to the social secretary for organising such an interesting and informative outing
Bill Webb
Thursday 2nd June 2011
On a beautiful day in June a group of seven members took up the challenge of descending the largest and deepest cavern in the UK. Gaping Gill in North Yorkshire was the destination.
Leaving from Festival Park at 6.15 am, we duly arrived at the site for 10.00 am and were given our instructions, waterproofs and helmet. Bradford Potholing Club open up the cavern for three weeks of the year to enable the public to experience a descent of 365 feet in a chair lift.
Once at the bottom John Critchlow, our leader, led the party through a series of challenging crevices and steep climbs surrounded by beautiful stalagmites. On occasions we were crawling in water on all fours or on our bellies over very slippery terrain.
Satisfied, and a good day had by all, we enjoyed a well deserved pint in the local public house in Clapham. Thanks to John for organising this event.
Arthur Emanuel
Sunday 12th June 2011
An English Summer,
A beautiful June sunny morning saw a coach load of Hanliensians, every seat taken, leaving Newcastle for the next stage of the Cotswold Way. The weather forecasters had told us rain was expected but we had no idea of how long, hard and wind driven this day was to be. All the time we were in the Cotswolds it was wet wet wet.Two hours after leaving Newcastle we were leaving the bus with strong intent to get into full waterproofs. Someone opened their pack to discover to their horror that their waterproof coat had not been packed; fortunately another club member had a spare.
The D party looked out of the coach windows knowing that they had these conditions to face soon. The A and C parties divided and then first one and then the other started up a hill into strong winds and heavy rain. Some umbrellas were seen but keeping these in position was a serious challenge.
On a positive note, the flowers were impressive, easy to spot when you are walking along hood down staring at the ground. The views were impressive we were told. Cheltenham, warmth and comfort, was frequently in sight down below. Do not go to near the edge or the wind will blow you over was the cry. Indeed a hat did go over on the C walk, but it was recovered.
The A party walked past the drinks/biscuits café where the C walkers were to have their lunch break. The C walkers were soon to be made welcome and offered in addition to warm drinks the opportunity to sit on a veranda to eat their sandwiches. The route continued up a steep hill and then down to the pub. Unfortunately the pub was closed for redecoration but fortuitously, or was it good planning, the coach was in a lay-by across the road. It was a dripping A group who gingerly removed waterproofs before sitting in their seats to eat lunch. A phone call went out to warn the C walkers that their anticipated shelter would not be forthcoming.
The D walkers walked the end part of this Cotswold Way stretch and despite the rain-doused spirits both A and D diverted slightly to admire the limestone pillar known as the Devil’s Chimney. Origins uncertain but I like the theory that it was the work of 18th century quarry workers.
As soon as the final party reached the coach it was waterproofs off for an earlier than expected return to Newcastle, eating the prepared picnic on the bus. “We should have done this in Summer” “I propose we come back and do this stretch again at the end” were among comments heard as we approached a dry Newcastle.
Once again the weather had caused us to remember the reason our countryside is so verdant and we took it all in our stride. Probably be talking about this extremely wet day for some time to come.
My thanks to Mike E, John C, Dave H and Ashley for organising this day out. The scenery was truly impressive even in the wet. I at least look forward to the next stretch, when I shall hopefully be making remarks about the wonderfully improved weather conditions.
Anne Jepson
A Lovely Walk
I’ve just been on a lovely walk
Got there at half past nine
Met friends and had a little talk
With some good friends of mine
We crossed a field amidst some rain
Who cares - we can come back again
Such work is done it seems a shame
We do not do this walk again
A stroll is just another reason
Fresh and new in another season
When all the snow is on the ground
To see celandine abound
If we could keep them on a file
Dated, classified by mile
Maybe in a year (or two)
We could use the information to
Take another look at rambles
Other people loved and ambled
Into nearby hidden places
When with all astonished faces
Look at each other and declare
“I never knew that it was there!”Jane Rushton
The Stop Press on the Home page is to broadcast information (including Programme changes) to all members as quickly as possible. Please look at it every now and then and also ask me to include information you need to impart.
The Gallery page on the web site is designed to hold pictures (one per member), taken on club events. Please submit a photo so I can create a page for you. I also ask those members who have already contributed to send me replacements every now and then.
I have uploaded a new page, called Faces, which has small portraits of some members (about 170) and puts names to them. Have a look and send photographs of members not yet included or replacements for pictures you don’t like. Please let me know if you wish not to be included.
Tuesday 1 March 2011
The Chairman welcomed everyone to the meeting and outlined the events held within the club for the past year.
Apologies were received from Peter and Sue Corlett, Edward and Diane Hambleton, John Brereton, Hilary Walker, Jackie Frangelli, Kate Cooper, Sue James, Anita Lancaster, Dave Hollins, Sheila Hawley, Phil Burgess, Maureen Sherwin, Tom and Freda Roberts, Norman Hiles and Sue and Mike Everill.
Minutes of Last Annual General Meeting were read and approved.
Matters Arising: Margaret Finney mentioned the matter of paying drivers who gave lifts. This is especially relevant since the price of petrol had escalated so much. It was agreed to discuss this matter under any other business.
Treasurer’s Report
Ken presented his income and expenditure report. He concluded by recommending that the subs remain the same. This was agreed. Members were reminded that life membership was £105.
Election of Officers
Margaret Bailey was proposed and seconded to remain as Chairman; she agreed and was duly elected. After being proposed and seconded, the following were elected:
Vice Chairman John Brereton Social Secretary Peter Johnson Walks Co-ordinator Ashley Steadman Publicity Officer Gordon Davenport General Secretary Joyce Rawlinson Editor Allan Wells Treasurer Ken Elkin Webmaster Mike Everill Membership Secretary Bill Finney Auditor Pat Davenport The change of title from Walks Secretary to Walks Co-ordinator was approved by the meeting.
Election of General Committee Members
In accordance with the Club Constitution the following members are able to serve a second year on the Committee and have agreed to do so: Bill Locker, Mike Wilkes, Alan Ratcliffe and Sheelagh Evans.
Nominations were requested for the four remaining positions. As only four were received the following were elected: Brian Joynson, Barrie Tunnicliffe, Mary Gilbert and Val Hiles.
Walks Programme
Ashley said that he was very pleased at the success of the Coach Rambles as numbers had been dropping in previous years. The Cotswold Way Coach Ramble for 2011 would be 12th June and 18th September.
The double A weekend on the 4th and 5th June organized by Bernard Heath is at Eyam.
The Autumn holiday is to be at the Rendezvous Hotel in Skipton. Bill Walshaw had organised the Summer holiday in Switzerland. The annual barbecue is to be at Oakamoor Picnic Place. Ashley thanked all the leaders and co-ordinators of walks.
Social Events
Peter mentioned the canal trip with meal. Only 14 people had shown and interest so he said that if anyone else was interested, to contact Hilary Walker.
There is to be a visit to the Cheese Farm at Acton and a visit to the Atrium Restaurant at Stoke-on-Trent College on the 9th March.
The children’s walk, organised by Margaret was to take place at Astbury Mere in June.
The Spring 2012 holiday is to be at the Coast and Country Hotel at Portinscale, Keswick.
The Autumn 2012 holiday is to be at The Long Mynd Hotel at Church Stretton.
It was hoped to organise a Golden Oldies evening in February 2012.
John Critchlow is to organise a trip to Gaping Gill.
Peter said that if anyone had any ideas for social events, he would be pleased to hear them.
Any Other Business
The subject of how much to give to drivers for lifts to walks was discussed at length. £3 for short journeys and £5 for longer ones was suggested. After much discussion, it was decided that this matter would be discussed at the next Committee meeting.
It was pointed out that walk leaders on coach rambles did not have to pay the coach fare, as they had to try out the walks previous to the trip.
Bill Finney said that a number of member’s telephone numbers were ex-directory and should not be given out unless permission had first been granted.
The Chairman raised the matter concerning walkers going ahead of leaders, and that it should not happen. Other concerns were mentioned such as there always not being a back marker, and members getting left behind. Dave Spragg suggested that back markers could have whistles; this was an option to be looked at.
It was suggested that it should be the responsibility of the leader of a walk to welcome any new members and to check that they were wearing suitable footwear. Bill said that he mentioned this to any new members that contacted him.
The meeting closed at 9.50pm.