Winter 2026

Welcome to our Winter Programme for 2026. Nikki and Sean have successfully negotiated their first Walks Programme and have moved on to their second. They are not yet showing signs of stress. Thanks to them.
To state the obvious, we have had a very hot summer. We can’t really say a BBQ summer as for much of the time BBQs were out of the question because of the extreme risk of wildfire!
None of your walk leaders like to offer and recce a walk and then have to cancel it. Back in July, I found myself on the verge of sending out a “Walk Cancelled Email” as the forecast predicted a temperature of over 30 degrees. However, sitting in the cool shade of The Fox public house in Corfe Castle enjoying a drink after an early evening group walk, I had the idea of rather than cancelling I’d make a start at 08:30 instead of 10:00. I wasn’t sure what the attendance would be, but I’m glad to say that about a dozen members turned up and it was a lovely walk. The only drawback was that instead of adjourning to The Square & Compass we had to be satisfied with a cup of coffee or an ice cream at the tea room by Worth Matravers pond. The pub had not yet opened its doors. We are told to adapt to our changing climate, so perhaps next year we may have to consider early starts during high summer, particularly for walks with little shade.
Medical incidents are luckily infrequent, but a challenge when they do arise. We would ask you to bring an emergency contact number with you when walking with the Group.
I would encourage all members to review the guidelines for walkers and please remember to let the leader or back marker know if you wish to deviate from the route or drop off during the course of the walk.
On the social side, we had a lovely visit to the gardens at Eastington. Those that attended were impressed by both the beautiful gardens and the hospitality provided by our hosts. We were also lucky to have great weather for our well