DECEMBER
Festival of Winter Walks 2009-10
26 December 2009 - 3 January 2010
The Ramblers have teamed up with the Change4Life campaign to bring back the traditional Christmas day walk. They're calling on families across the country to burn off their Christmas dinner and be more active over the festive season.
http://www.ramblers.org.uk/walkthemes/winterwalks.htm
Sponsored by Nature Valley
www.naturevalley.co.uk
NOVEMBER
BBC Radio Wales team up with Ramblers Cymru and Arriva Trains Wales for Rail Rambles walk on 18th November 2009
The Rail Ramble started out from Cardiff Central train station Platform 0; departing for Cross Keys. A 6 mile walk consisting of parkland, forestry, and farmland, Ramblers were accompanied by reporters from BBC Radio Wales show Country Focus; chatting about the joys of taking part in Rail Rambles across Wales. Containing views of the Severn Bridges, Caerphilly Castle, Twmbarlwm Tump, Millennium Stadium and Norman Pillow Mounds, the walk has plenty to see and is classified as being a 'beginner to moderate' walk.
The leader of this walk is Maggie Thomas. Maggie is the Islwyn Ramblers Group Secretary and is also a member of the Welsh Council Executive Committee (WCEC).
For more info about this walk and to learn more about the Iswlyn Ramblers group contact Maggie on 01495 273 057
NOVEMBER - 03/11/09
Indus, the production company behind hit BBC series 'Coal House' is searching for families to star in a new series called 'Snowdonia Farmhouse'
Indus Films are looking for two families from Wales to take part in a new series which involves living and working in Snowdonia on a Victorian smallholding and quarry for four weeks. They are looking for adventurous people to take part!
If you are interested in taking part, please phone:
Helen Cawley on 029 20 399 555 www.indusfilms.com
or alternatively fill in an application form via the BBC Wales website (www.bbc.co.uk/wales).
OCTOBER
Halloween walk with Tiger Bay Ramblers (TBR) - 31/10/09
Do you want to avoid those trick and treaters? Instead of hiding under a table with all the lights off, why not join TBR for a night walk around Pontcanna and Llandaff Fields?! They'll be meeting from 6pm at Pontcanna Fields and walking up the Taff Trail to Llandaff where there will be a break at one of the 4 pubs, before returning to the start point.
Please bring a torch as darkness is guaranteed!
For more information about Tiger Bay Ramblers, please visit their website:
http://www.tigerbayramblers.org.uk
This walk is featured on their 'next walk' page:
http://www.tigerbayramblers.org.uk/walks/#nextwalk
OCTOBER
Congratulations to Llanelli Ramblers who celebrated their Silver Jubilee on Friday 23rd October at the King Arthur Hotel Reynoldson.
This vibrant group welcomes people from all ages. To find out more about the Llanelli Group, please visit their website: http://www.llanelliramblers.org.uk/
JUNE 2010 - 75th Anniversary celebrations!
This is one to note for your diaries!!! Ramblers are holding an event at the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff on 23rd June 2010 to celebrate our 75th anniversary! More updates soon...
OCTOBER
South Wales Outdoor Adventurers of the Year revealed! 3rd October 2009
Ramblers Zetta Flew & Andrew Morgan have been recognised for the work they have done on Coastal Access in support of the Welsh Assembly Government's commitment to open the UK's first National Coastal Path, in Wales by 2012. They have worked closely with many local authorities in Wales, walking and submitting recommendations for the route.
South Wales Outdoor Adventurers of the Year Andrew and Zetta with GO Outdoors store manager Paul Scrivens & Ramblers Cymru Chair Helen Lloyd Jones
GO Outdoors on Newport Road in Cardiff, dedicated its store opening to Zetta & Andrew, on Saturday 3rd October - before presenting them with the South Wales Outdoor Adventurer of the Year 2009 trophy.
Photo courtesy of Richard Glynn
SEPTEMBER
Rights of Way Advanced Footpath Training Day - 26th September 2009
Demand for in depth study of certain rights of way issues has led to the development of more advanced footpath workshops, the first of which will be run on Saturday 26th September 2009 at the Ramblers Cymru Office in Cardiff.
This session: Diversion Orders
Securing the best outcome for walkers when a footpath diversion is proposed
For further information on this course or to book your place please contact Mike Mills on 029 20 646893 or email: mike.mills@ramblers.org.uk
26/09/09 Advanced ROW Footpath Training timetable & location map
SEPTEMBER
'Reach' Bridgend Discovery Walks Weekend, 18th - 20th September 2009
This September, there will be themed walks taking place across the county borough of Bridgend - all in one weekend!
You could go foraging for wild food, ghost hunting, bat detecting, Nordic walking and lots more!
Why not come along? All of the walks, which are led by expert local guides, are completely free!
Please click here: Discovery Walks Weekend
or contact: rhiannon.dafydd@bridgend.gov.uk for further details.
Supported by:
SEPTEMBER
Family Walking Day: Cardiff Bay/Bae Caerdydd - 13th September 2009
Back to school blues? Join Margaret for a gentle walk from the Norwegian Church; exploring the bay and seeing the barrage.
For more information please visit the Cardiff Ramblers website:
http://www.cardifframblers.org.uk/family/family.html
SEPTEMBER
Rights of Way Basic South Wales Training Day - 12th September 2009
The basic footpath course is focused on the basics of footpath law and is perfect for complete beginners right the way through to experienced footpath workers who are looking for a short refresher and would like to know more.
The next training day will take place on Saturday 12th September 2009 at Groundwork Bridgend & Neath Port Talbot office, The Engine House, Parc Tondu, in Bridgend.
Winners of the last South Wales Footpath Workshop quiz receive their trophy from Mike Mills
For further information on this course or to book your place please contact Mike Mills on 029 20 646893 or email: mike.mills@ramblers.org.uk
We are restricted to a maximum of 25 for this forthcoming event so early booking is recommended, the course is already half full!
12/09/09 South Wales Basic timetable
12/09/09 Training location map
Footpath training update, August 09
AUGUST
Family Walking Day: Pen y Fan - Climb the Big One! - 23rd August 2009
Running out of ideas for entertaining the children over the summer holidays?
Pulling your hair out due to complaints of boredom?
Why not find out about Family Walking by joining the Cardiff Ramblers Group on an exhilerating trip to Pen Y Fan on Sunday 23rd!
For more information please visit the Cardiff Ramblers website:
http://www.cardifframblers.org.uk/family/family.html
AUGUST
Vale of Glamorgan Show, Fonmon - 19th August 2009
Ramblers were well represented at the Vale Show. Bill, Gwenda, Ruth, Margaret & Ian welcomed people to the Vale of Glamorgan Ramblers Group stand and were visited by Plaid Cymru's Chris Franks.
For more information about Vale of Glamorgan Ramblers please visit their website: http://www.valeofglamorganramblers.co.uk/
AUGUST
Communities on Foot launch walk - Glyncorrwg Ponds - 6th August 2009
Staff members Julie Hannam and Mike Mills initiated an exciting walk in the stunning sunshine.
Led by Julie Hannam, the ‘Communities on Foot’ project running from April 2008 to March 2010 will see links developed with selected community and town councils in Neath Port Talbot, local volunteers, local people and other stakeholders in an effort to significantly improve path condition in the those areas. The main focus and objective of the pilot scheme will explore ways to encourage community and town councils (or local residents groups) to take a proactive approach to improving path conditions in those areas.
AUGUST
Coastal Access for Wales!
Heard about our campaign for Coastal Access? Andrew Morgan and Zetta Flew (pictured below) have done amazing work mapping out potential routes for the coastal path.
Coastal Access discussions will be taking place in August with the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) to see how this work can be extended.
AUGUST
Eisteddfod in Bala - 1st - 8th August 2009
Ramblers Cymru held a stand on the Maes again this year.
Commenting on the event, Ramblers Cymru Chair Helen Lloyd Jones said:
'I was thrilled that Jane Davidson the Welsh Assembly Minister for the Environment came to meet us at the Tom Ellis statue in Bala to promote the Tom Ellis walk. The walk had been drawn up by the North Wales Area and was perfect for first time walkers. The best thing about this summer has been the terrific support of our members. I'd like to send a big thank you to everybody who helps Ramblers Cymru be such a great organisation to work with. Everybody's contribution is really appreciated by us all. Mil o ddiolch i bawb!'
JULY
Royal Welsh Show (RWS) 20th - 23rd July 2009
The President of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show Lord Lieutenant Kate Thomas visited the Ramblers Cymru stand at the Royal Welsh and cut our 75th Anniversary celebration cake for us. The Chairman of the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) John Lloyd Jones thanked Beverley Penney for the contribution she had made to the access work in Wales over the years and told her how much her help had been appreciated by all.
Photo: (Left to right) Child enjoying the colouring activities at the Ramblers Cymru stand; Chair Helen Lloyd Jones and President Richard Lloyd Jones entertaining visitors; the Ramblers 75th Anniversary cake; Helen with John Lloyd Jones, Beverley Penney & Kate Thomas; WCEC member Maggie Thomas vacuuming up the cake crumbs!
JULY
Community Walking Project: Turning Point
Brecon Beacons walk - 15th July 2009
Angela Charlton, James Norman & Beverley Penney joined Turning Point for a challenging and rewarding walk in the Brecon Beacons. Everyone walked at their own pace and there was a real sense of achievement upon reaching the summit.
JULY
Community Walking Project: Bridgend Carers
Bridgend/Merthyr Mawr folklore of plants walk - 10th July 2009
Eight carers and a member of Bridgend Carers staff joined Angela Charlton and James Norman on a two hour walk starting out from Bridgend Recreation Centre. The walk proceded on a path alongside the river bank heading out of the town towards Merthyr Mawr.
This walk focused on the folklore of edible and medicinal plants which was thoroughly enjoyed by the attendees. The carers were also keen to extend future walks by taking part in a picnic amongst the lush scenery.
JULY
Community Walking Project: Turning Point
Pembrokeshire Coastal Walk - 8th July 2009
Ramblers Cymru members of staff Angela Charlton and James Norman joined five beneficiaries and two support workers from Llanelli based organisation Turning Point. 'The Turning Point Carmarthenshire Life Skills Project supports people who have experienced alcohol problems and now want to develop their skills and confidence to build a brighter future for themselves'.
The walk started in Solva harbour and concluded in St. David's city. Lasting three hours, the walk offered stunning views of the Pembrokeshire coast and was extremely well received. Two of the beneficiaries recorded that we walked 15,000 steps and everyone felt elated and eager to do more!
JULY
Caerau Maesteg - 4th July 2009
Ramblers Cymru teamed up with Communities First Caerau, Vale Arts and Academi to lead a walk for the local children. The children were given digital cameras to use and with the help of Vale Arts managed to capture the feel of the walk brilliantly.
Flowers were identified and a red kite soared up above them, a magical moment just as they reached the mountain garden. The walk leaders were all members of the Maesteg Rambling group.
JUNE
Hafod Eryri - 12th June 2009
The official opening for Hafod Eryri was held on 12th June. A walking party including the First Minister of the Welsh Assembly Government Rhodri Morgan, Carwyn Jones, Counsel General; Jane Davidson, Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing; Huw Irranca Davies DEFRA Minister and our own Chair of Ramblers Cymru Helen Lloyd Jones. Our previous Chair Ron Williams also joined the climb up the Pyg route to the top of Snowdon.
Rhodri Morgan officially opened Hafod Eryri which combines a railway terminus, visitor centre and cafe into one building that nestles just below the summit of Snowdon. Ray Hole the architect explained to Helen that he had designed Hafod Eryri on a radial principal so that it would fit snugly into the mountain side - wherever you sit your eyes will be drawn to the summit. The building uses local granite and local oak and the windows are engraved with specially written poetry from Gwyn Thomas.
Helen joined an ITV Wales weather man to talk about Hafod Eryri and that evening Annie Sheaf, one of our North Wales area ramblers, was interviewed on BBC Wales Today. Annie is a keen walker and knows the area well. She was delighted to be able to tell the interviewers that she thought ramblers would welcome the new facilities.
Look closely and you will see some of Gwyn Thomas' poetry on the window behind Annie!
JUNE
Rail Rambles Festival - 6th & 7th June 2009
Celebrating 20 years of Rail Rambles, a Rail Rambles Festival was held over the weekend 6th and 7th June. Originally the brain child of Alan Howard, the Rail Rambles programme continues to grow and has developed to link up occasionally with bus routes as well. Funded by Arriva and Ramblers Cymru, there are around 200 Rail Rambles every year.
Speaking at the dinner Helen Lloyd Jones, Chair of Ramblers Cymru congratulated the team that pull the programme together, mentioning the sterling work of Anwen Parker at the Ramblers Cymru office as well as hard working volunteers. 'Despite the incessant rain on Saturday everybody enjoyed themselves. It was an unforgettable weekend that we all hope will be repeated many times, preferably with less rain in future! '
MAY
Amelia Trust Farm Family Walk - 17th May 2009
The Cardiff group held a successful Family Walk at the Amelia Trust Farm on Sunday 17th May. The walk was also attended by Welsh singer Huw Chiswell. Chair of Ramblers Cymru Helen Lloyd Jones said 'The donkeys came for a ramble as well, the children were really thrilled to have their company. It was great fun!'
APRIL
Publicity & Recruitment Workshop - 21st & 22nd April 2009
Volunteers attended this workshop that Ramblers held at the Welsh Institute of Sport in Cardiff. Originally to be held on just one day, the workshop was given an extra day due to volunteer interest! Topics covered by staff members Ruth Wembridge, Mariusz Wilczynski and Anwen Parker included:
'Ways to boost your numbers',
'How to use local media'
and 'Tips for improving your communications'.
APRIL
Easter Sunday Walk 2009
12th April 2009
Member of staff James Norman joined the Vale of Glamorgan Ramblers for a coastal linear walk from Ogmore to Llantwit Major on one of the sunniest days of the year so far! Many thanks to Vale of Glamorgan Ramblers for providing a healthy, fun and informative way to enjoy the Easter break.
MARCH
Welsh Council (14th - 15th March 2009) Diolch yn fawr! / Thank you!
Ramblers Cymru wants to say a massive thank you to everyone who attended our Welsh Council!
Welsh Council 2009 was held in the Springfield Hotel, near Holywell, Flintshire. We feel that the weekend was a huge success and we are thrilled to see that many of you agree! The feedback we have received has been overwhelmingly positive and bodes well for the exciting times that lay ahead. It was a lively weekend - as well as conducting formal business, the event was a fantastic opportunity to meet up and socialise with other Ramblers members.
For first time attendees, we hope you enjoyed learning about Ramblers Cymru's activities from its origins right up to the present day!
Dymuniadau gorau / Best wishes,
Y Cerddwyr / Ramblers Cymru
MARCH
2nd March 2009 - Official new logo and branding launch!
On the 2nd March 2009 the Ramblers officially launched its new logo and branding materials. Ramblers Cymru is excited to be working with the fresh new look and the flexibility it brings, whilst still representing and retaining Ramblers aims and goals.
