Gosport

Extra Mile Walking Group

WELCOME TO 2022 - WALKING THE EXTRA MILE

We will continue to be aware of the current risk levels of covid in our communities. Members are asked not to attend walks if they have Covid symptoms or if they are advised to isolate. We support government advice to protect ourselves through vaccination and using the Lateral Flow Tests

Over the last 2 years and when permitted, groups have valued the benefit of countryside exercise usually within a radius of up to 30 miles from Gosport. Our group is beginning to attract new members as we move towards a more stable programme of regular walking. By February 2022 we had 28 members on the mailing list plus other enquiries. Not everyone attends all walks but Leaders find numbers towards 20 or over more challenging to manage. At present we are grading the walks so members can decide if the walk is right for them. We may have to consider creating a waiting list if the numbers creep over 30.

The programme for 2022 - 2nd and 4th Fridays except August - is almost complete. We are grateful for the enthusiasm and commitment of our Walk Leaders and are keen to encourage more regular walkers to come forward to help manage walks. Walks do need to be checked first and good way to learn about how to lead walks is to go out with an experienced leader to help research a walk. A record is kept of walk plans - including Risk Assessments to comply with u3a Insurance. See the link to the right - EM Walk Check and Risk Assessment - which includes the Covid Risk Assessment as appropriate. It is in PDF format but a Word format of the document can be supplied for Walk Leaders to complete electronically.

We are meeting once more at Holbrook Leisure Centre where we have begun to share cars as a way of reducing the number of cars and to be able to offer lifts to members without transport. There is no obligation for drivers to offer a lift to group members. During heightened Covid periods we did not share cars and this could happen once more. If this is the case directions to the walk start will be given.

We usually walk between 7 and 10 miles on country footpaths where we do meet uneven terrain with hills and stiles so a reasonable fitness, appropriate footwear and outdoor clothing is required. Members receive an email the weekend before a walk with an indication of how challenging the walk may be. We take a picnic and sometimes have a special outing eg to the Isle of Wight or for a pub lunch. If you are interested in joining or would like more information please contact Kathy by email using the bluebird on this page. -----