Walks Offer Fun And Friendship

The prospect of an idyllic ramble along the paths and byways ofRodney Stoke, with a social drinks break at the Rodney Stoke Inn,awaits anyone who joins in the circular walk organised by theDraycott and Rodney Stoke Parish Council this Sunday evening.

Beautiful views of the Mendips, combined with the opportunity tosee many birds such as a swan with cygnets, and herons, plusbutterflies, rare orchids and, of course, deer, are just a few of theadded attractions of these monthly leisurely and informal walks.

It is all relaxed and enjoyable, although I discovered that, likethe swan, there is a lot of activity beneath the surface.

I met Helen Dance, a retired head teacher, who is on the Draycottand Rodney Stoke Parish Council and chairs the footpath sub-committee.

She told me that the prime objective was to ensure the 10 miles offootpaths in the area stay open for the benefit of residents andvisitors throughout the year.

Currently the committee comprises three local councillors and fourlocal residents who have occasional meetings to plan walks, walk thepaths, keep stiles tidy and help farmers in trimming back thehedgerows and weeding.

Local character and regular walker Bernard Rowe is often found onthe stroll with clippers to clear the way and binoculars to spotbirds and stiles.

Helen told me that new committee members were always welcome andit was a pleasant social outlet too.

Lionel Plimsoll of Draycott, now 88, was the original chairmanand, although now retired as a councillor, his vast fund of knowledgeis still called upon.

The organisation is blended together with the help of the friendlyand co-operative landowners and Mendip District Council, who oftenprovide funding to improve the paths and signposting and ensure legalright of way.

Around 40 different walks have been devised over the years andthese are carefully planned to give a mixture of hill, valley andvillage walks.

Distances and degree of difficulty vary, although Helen stressedthat this was more social walking than a 'clock-up-the-miles-at-a-great-pace hike'.

All the walks are circular, although alternating between clockwiseand anti-clockwise adds variety. There is always a guide to add tothe enjoyment.

Farming factors such as wetness and length of grass or younglivestock have to be considered too, since the walks are open toanyone.

Families and dogs are regular walkers, although the majority ofwalkers are more mature.

One of the regulars is Ivy Routledge of Rodney Stoke, now in her80s, who puts many younger walkers to shame.

Other local stalwarts and helpers include Wally Smith and DerekFlood.

Around 50 people will walk during the year, with an average ofabout 20 for individual walks. Helen affirmed that they are anamicable group without social barriers.

This seems an ideal way to meet new people and make new friends,take gentle exercise and just chill out.

The walk on Sunday meets at the Rodney Stoke Inn on the A371 at6.30pm.

Maps of the parish paths cost 25p from Draycott Post Office.

If you would like to learn more about this walk or future plansHelen will be delighted to talk to you and can on (01934) 742811.