Walk Leader Resources
After being a member of The Ramblers for 2 years I decided I would like to lead a walk. I asked Annie a new rambler and work colleague of mine to do a recce with me and Sandra Chapman was very supportive and gave me lots of advice and tips.
We used a 10 mile route which had been published in the Worcester News by Julie Royle but changed it to fit in with a 5 mile walk. Using Julie’s map and a print out from the internet we set off. As we were novices it did take us all day to finalise the route and one field had crops growing right up to the fence which made the path almost impassable. There was also a misleading sign which took us on a detour but we did eventually get back on track.
Annie and I thoroughly enjoyed the recce and were looking forward to sharing it with the group. The starting point was Manor Farm Restaurant in St Johns. Sandra thought the walk would be popular as it was local and 5 miles in length. As Annie and I arrived on the car park, there were already a number of ramblers stood by their cars. As we started to put on our boots, more and more cars started pulling up. By the time, we were due to set off 42 people had decided to join us, so with me and Annie making 44, it was a record turnout, which to this day remains unbeaten.
The experienced ramblers on the day made sure the walk went smoothly and organised a look out post over the unmanned railway tracks. A good time was had by all followed by a delicious carvery at Manor Farm.
I would definitely recommend leading a walk and look forward to leading another walk soon.
Sue Cartridge
Worcester Ramblers are increasingly acquiring maps and trail guides that have been sourced through the use of Group funds and are therefore Group assets.
Access to these will be made available to our members for individuals use on a temporary basis.
If you are a Worcester Group member or leader, you can borrow the item for three weeks by contacting Heather Fraser.
The initial stock will obviously be modest but should build up over time.
Terms of Reference
If you have any maps or trail guides that are current but surplus to your own requirements, please contact Heather to let her know.
We currently have the following items.
Share your enthusiasm for walking and your knowledge of the walking environment, by leading people on walking routes in a welcoming, safe, responsible and enjoyable way.
Be familiar with the terms of the insurance cover and the expectations of being a Walk Leader
Existing Walk Leaders are always available to give support and advice. Many Walk Leaders take their first walks under the guidance of another experienced leader. Some Groups already offer navigation and first aid training. The Led Walks Team offer support on all aspects of walk leading and will offer training for leaders in the future.
Further information is available from the Led Walks Team. 2nd Floor, Camelford House, 87-90 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TW
ledwalks@ramblers.org.uk / 020 7339 8519
