Chairman’s Jottings Summer 2010

Chairman’s Jottings Autumn 2010

Richard Benyon MP

May was a fascinating time for those interested in politics and one of the election outcomes which may have escaped some people’s attention is that Newbury’s MP is now the minister responsible for countryside matters.  His official function is Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Natural Environment and Fisheries at the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).  Richard has been a good friend of the Ramblers and we expect his support to continue.

Footpath Secretaries and Footpath Work

Having served on the committee since 1971, Paul Frances has finally decided that it is time to stand down.  No one, not even Paul, can carry on indefinitely – as it is he has achieved nearly double the length of committee service with the Group that anyone else has in its history.  He has put a great deal of effort into championing the cause of footpath users over the years and his local knowledge and footpath knowhow will be sorely missed.   We hope to arrange a suitable presentation in the near future.

Doug Larsen has very kindly agreed to replace Paul on the committee.  Rather than having a straight swap, and because Neal Pike lives in Hungerford and Doug in Newbury, we have redistributed the parishes so that Neal will deal with the western half of the Group’s ‘patch’ and Doug with the eastern half.  The boundary between them is roughly a north-south line just west of Newbury but with Enborne, Speen and Winterbourne included in the east.  (Pang Valley and Mid Berks groups still cover the West Berkshire Council parishes east of Thatcham, Hermitage and Hampstead Norreys.)  Don’t hesitate to contact either Neal or Doug if you are not sure to whom a parish belongs.  

While on the subject of footpath work, Sue Pepper has recently retired from West Berkshire Council’s Rights of Way team and we must record our appreciation for all the support she has given the work party and gate teams while she’s been there.  Her responsibilities are being split up but we are anticipating a smooth transition to the new contacts.

Walks Programme

This summer’s programme has been a particularly full one with the extra walks for the Ramblers’ 75th Anniversary (and the Kennet & Avon Canal’s 200th).  Greg McGill’s coach walks have also helped to fill the pages and this programme should reach you in time for you to book on the last one if you haven’t done so already.

We hope to be able to continue the coach excursions in similar vein next year.  We would appreciate not only ideas for destinations that are suitable for both ramblers and non-walking companions but also offers to help identify practical drop off points and walk routes.  

Don’t forget that the Group AGM on 12th November and the Area AGM on 27th November are your opportunities to have your say – don’t forget the Christmas Party on 10th December either!

Graham Smith August 2010

 

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