Short walks 2016
Our June walk, organised and led by John Moore, was a little longer than usual, 3.75 miles, but flatter, easier and much less muddy. After car-sharing from Crediton to the Canal Basin in Exeter, we crossed the Quay and followed the River Exe as far as Duckes Marsh and St James Weir. We recrossed the river and meadow to the Double Locks on the historic Exeter Ship Canal and then followed the Canal towpath back for a welcome coffee at the Welcome Inn. The photo was taken by Graham Cridland.
Our August walk, organised and led by Gill Whittaker, followed the Redvers Ramble, starting from and finishing at Crediton Station. We were joined en route by Councillor Heather Samson who worked with the Town Council to devise, sign and publicise this local walk. The photo of the group admiring magnificent views from Yeolands, near QE Barnfield, was taken by Laura Conyngham.
Our September walk, organised and lead by Gill Whittaker, saw eight of us travel by train from Crediton to Topsham to complete a 2.5 mile circular walk around the picturesque town of Topsham with its rich historical heritage. The walk offered the opportunity to savour stunning estuary views, take in the wildlife at Bowling Green Marsh conservation area and wander along the town’s quaint narrow streets with its many characterful houses, shops and inns. At the end of the walk refreshments were taken in the garden of the Passage House Inn which overlooks the Exe estuary. The photo was taken by Sue Maynard.
In October 9 Short Walkers and 4 Philosophers, led by Rob Nicholls and another RSPB volunteer Lorraine, came together for a special session of birdwatching. This photo, taken by Sue Maynard, shows us intently looking for avocets from the viewing platform at Bowling Green Marsh near Topsham.
In November 13 of us, including 4 new members, walked along the Tiverton Canal and back on a cycle path to make a loop that I had never done before. We then had lunch at the Fisherman's Cott at Bickleigh while, outside, the River Exe was whooshing under the bridge. Our thanks to Keith for all the planning involved.
In December bright sunshine shone for 5 of us on our Christmas walk. Level through Long Plantation from Upper Deck with views through the woods to Creedy Park, then across the town, and then again across Pedlerspool and the Creedy valley. We walked down Penton Lane and round the Church to a warm welcome at East Town Cafe. The group then returned across Newcombes Meadow, up and along People's Park to Upper Deck.