Newsletter Spring 2018

I have begun writing this newsletter as snow is falling outside and very cold weather is forecast. But fear not, with March just around the corner spring will be arriving shortly; the sun will be shining, the days will be longer and so too our walks.

AGM 2nd February 18

We have started this year with lots of positive information to share. The AGM was very well attended with 42 members present. Ken talked us through the accounts confirming that after expenditure for such things as the AGM supper, new survival bags for the walk leaders, diaries, hiring a coach in Dorset and other sundry items we still have a healthy bank balance. Everyone thought that Willington Hall was conveniently placed, and provided a lovely setting for our Christmas party. Members commented, with just a few exceptions that the food was fine and good value for money. For 2018 we may possibly return for one final year, unless anyone knows of somewhere new they would like to suggest.

Changes to the committee.

Ed thanked Ken for all he has done and the many hours he has spent overseeing the accounts and holiday finances as treasurer over the last 4 years. Neville Carr has kindly agreed to take over.

Membership

The database has been up-dated, thank you for all responding so quickly. It was a worthwhile exercise to check and amend everyone’s details and to see just how many people we have walking. At present we have 66 walkers, but just in the last month we have received several enquiries and 4 new members so our numbers are on the up.

The 2018 membership card has been distributed. The committee’s contact details, along with club events are included on the card along with the calendar of walks for the year and the discount code for Cotswolds Outdoor. Walk Information

Pauline shared walk statistics with us showing that numbers attending weekend walks is up and that we are now able to revert back to our old walk pattern of 3 consecutive weekends followed by only one weekend off.

Some of our Walk Leaders are going on further training this year. If you too would like to become a leader and develop your map reading skills then please speak to Pauline. The training is provided and lots of help and support given.

This year the committee would like to focus on increasing the membership and so amongst other things ‘New for 2018’ we will be holding 4 mid-week early evening walks which we hope will appeal to OH members who attend the gym in the evening as well as our current members. More information will be sent out nearer the time but the dates and places are below so that you may make a note of them.

Mid-Week Walks

Walking Holidays 2018

Sarah confirmed details of all the holidays planned for 2018. We begin with the Italian Dolomites, followed by Beddgelert, Lake Bled in Bavaria and lastly in the autumn we will be returning by popular demand to Glaramara just outside of Keswick. Details were also given of holidays to be offered in 2019. Please see below for more details on all of these.

Badia, Italian Dolomites. 11^th to 18^th March 2018 

This winter activity chalet holiday has been booked with Collett’s with members due to enjoy an early trip away with a forecast of excellent snow and skiing conditions. 11 members are attending.

Spring Walking Weekend: Beddgelert, Snowdonia

13^th to 16^th April 2018

The first holiday weekend in 2018 is based at Craflwyn Hall and with 28 members going; it is now fully booked and paid for. If you wish to be put on the reserve list then please contact Sarah, sometimes late availability occurs.

Summer Holiday: Lake Bled, Slovenia Saturday 23^rd

June Saturday 30^th June 2018 

23 members have booked for our 2018 summer holiday. We will enjoy HF sole occupancy meaning that it will only be members from our club on the two walks each day allowing the walk leaders to tailor them to our level and needs.

Autumn Walking Weekend: Keswick, Lake District.

21^st to 24^th September 2018 

We will be returning to Glaramara hotel where the food is fabulous and the walking spectacular. We have 9 twin-bedded rooms but only 6 single rooms (so please think of doubling up with a friend if you are willing). There are a number of people who have already signed up so please let Sarah know if you are interested.

Walking Holidays 2019

The committee has chosen one location relatively near to home and one further afield; details are below.

Spring Walking Weekend: HF Hotel in Alnmouth Northumberland

Dates 26^th to 29th April 2019

Summer Holiday: Hotel Schwefelbad in Schenna, South Tyrol, Northern Italy.

Dates: 22^nd to 29^th June.

Autumn Walking Weekend: HF Hotel in Dolgellau, North Wales

Dates 30^th September to 2^nd October 2019

Wainrights

There are also three Wainwright weekends away for those who wish to join in more Red Level walking. If you are interested in the Wainwrights then please contact John Trimble or Howard Cruse for all the latest information as only those members who have expressed particular interest in going are emailed with times/accommodation info etc. Below are more details for all these events.

Our charity walk and BBQ (venue tbc) on July 15th will again be offering two walks again which will hopefully cater for everyone.

Wainwrights Weekends

On behalf of the committee

Regards to you all & Happy Walking

Paula Ford