Walks Short
Ken Mainey
Monday 10am
ken.mainey@cheadleu3a.org
01538 702556

Event Information

I'm Ken Mainey the programme organiser for the short walks group. We meet at the Harborne Road Car Park, Cheadle, at 9.45 am on Monday mornings. If the weather looks poor then phone the Walk Leader for that day to check if it's been cancelled. The short walks, of up to 5 miles, generally take place within a 30 minutes drive of Cheadle.

Please arrive 15 minutes before departure at 10.00 am sharp. If you are new to the Group then you will have to read and agree, only once, to some common sense Health and Safety Advice. For details see the Document below which also includes some more general information A Hard Copy will be available for your signature from the Walk Leader

Below is the current program: (Issued 17 May 2012)

Individual Short Walkers 'Health and Safety Advice
There is an obvious level of responsibility to be taken by the Short Walk Leader not to lead those following into danger. Just as important, however, is that each walker must act responsibly in their own avoidance of hazards and in addition to this they must endeavour not do anything that may put their companions in any danger. Walking in itself is not an inherently hazardous occupation and most walking hazards fall within the realm of common sense. The more important of these are listed below as a reminder.

An appropriate level of fitness is required such that individuals can keep up with the rest of the group. The group will never leave behind any individual who cannot match the pace set by the Leader. If an individual needs a breather, it is up to them to ask the 'back marker' to radio the Leader and request a 'Catch up' An obvious inability to keep up may lead to that individual being asked not to come again until their fitness is improved.

Sensible inner and outer clothing are essential to suit the expected weather conditions. Due to unexpected changes however, bringing spare waterproofs is also recommended.

Walking boots are recommended to keep the feet warm and dry. These will also provide grip and support to the ankles, something essential on any steep slopes. Walking shoes are an acceptable lighter alternative to boots but sandals or the like are inappropriate.

A walking stick is recommended but not essential.

In hot weather sufficient water should be brought to avoid dehydration. Something to eat should also be brought to keep up the level of energy. As a Group we usually rest for a few minutes around midway through the walk for a 'Banana Break' and drink.

If possible, a mobile phone with an ICE (In Case of Emergency) number in its address list, should be brought.

During the walk each individual must keep a sharp look out for any unusual hazards and advise those who are following to take extra care. Awareness and caution are the watchwords at all times, especially when climbing over stiles.

Individual Short Walkers 'Health and Safety Advice'
I have read and agree with the above Health and Safety Advice document for Individual Short Walkers and will retain the top section of this sheet for future reference.

Name, in Block Letters _______________________________

Membership number _______________________________

Signature and date _______________________________

General Information:

Assembly
The Short Walkers will normally assemble, before 10-00am, each Monday morning in the Car Park in Harborne Road Cheadle, which is situated behind the old Council Offices in Leek Road. When they arrive they must register their presence and pay their session fee of £1.

New walkers to the Group must read and sign the 'Individual Short Walkers Health and Safety Advice' provided on the reverse of this sheet.

Those who have arrived must agree among themselves who is sharing transport with who.

Due to inflation and the rising cost of fuel, the recommended donation by passengers to the Driver has risen to £2. At the discretion of the driver this may be reduced on any particular day.

Walkers must arrive in time to be able to complete all the above tasks and be ready for a prompt start at 10-00am.

Walk Leaders will have planned the walk with the aim of returning to the Car Park by not much later than 1-00pm.

Information about the Walk.
From time to time a list of - Dates, Walk Location, Distance, Number of stiles, the Walk Leader's name (plus Telephone number) will be updated. The growing popular method of distribution of this updated list is by Email to those individuals who have such facilities. Alternatively the updated list can be found in the website which can be accessed free of change from the Public Library. Some printed copies will always be available for those who need them.

Possible Cancellation
Walks may be cancelled by the Walk Leader due to poor weather such as heavy rain, fog, snow, gales or severe cold. If such conditions exist and no cancellation has already been received from the Walk Leader, it is strongly recommended that they be telephoned before leaving home.

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