What a difference a year makes!

Last August, at our second attempt and on a very grey, wet day, a few brave people walked across the Severn Bridge. Led by Sedbury Walk Leaders Richard and Sue Skinner it was very wet to start with, though the weather did improve on the way back. 

Sue briefing us about the walk

Look - blue sky!

Last Saturday the weather was completely different and around 30 walkers met in Bulwark to embark on this latest challenge. The six mile walk, which included a lunch stop at the Boars Head in Aust, was a 'progression' walk and not a true Health Walk. 

Why did you come along today?

People had come along for different reasons - some to do something they'd always wanted to do and others as part of a personal fitness challenge. Whatever the reason, we all enjoyed our walk across this iconic bridge and visiting Aust, which is a lovely village which we usually miss when driving by. Many thanks to Sue and Richard for organising a great event.

Cake and things....

Kate presenting Kim with the award 

Earlier this year Forest of Dean Walking for Health was nominated in the Best Team Achievement category for the Ramblers President's Volunteers Awards and were voted  winners in an online poll. Local volunteer Scheme Coordinator, Kim Spencer, was presented with the award by Ramblers President, Kate Ashbrook at the end of June as Kate was unable to be at the Celebration Event, where the award was shared by all Forest of Dean Walking for Health volunteers and walkers. 

The Community Centre, Yorkley

Despite the sweltering weather of a recent mini heat wave, more than 60 Walking for Health walkers from all over the district went along to a celebration event at the lovely new Community Centre, Yorkley. They all took part in a short walk, suited to their varying abilities, before returning to the Community Centre for their AGM and celebration picnic, which included two enormous cakes (see below)!

Lining up for the official photo - "its like herding cats"

We are delighted to receive this national award which is a fantastic reflection of the effort put in by all our volunteers be they walk leaders, trainers, fund raisers, tea makers, committee members, graphic designers or admin assistants. Many of our walkers have helped out too by welcoming new walkers, and telling potential walkers all about our scheme. Thanks to our volunteers, Forest of Dean Walking for Health is going from strength to strength.