STEPS2HEALTH wishes Happy New Year to all readers. Steps2Health is an entry level walking club welcoming new members. The club organises walks lasting up to an hour, every Saturday, year round.

The walkers started last month with their annual Christmas lunch, the social highlight of the year. For the first time ever, however, the traditional pre-lunch walk was very poorly supported. Gale force wind and frequent horrendous showers may have had something to do with that!

The lunch itself was very well attended and the Giltar Hotel provided their usual lovely meal and excellent service. Vice Chair Kym presented Peter with a commemorative mug to mark his achievement of 1,000 walks with the club; well done Peter.

On December 13 the club was lucky to have a dry, if windy, morning for a trip to Pembroke. 32 optimists turned up for a choice of scenic walks. Brian, supported by Barbara, took the Speedies to Holyland Woods for a game of avoid the giant puddle.

Speedies dodging the puddles in Holyland Woods, Pembroke
Speedies dodging the puddles in Holyland Woods, Pembroke. Photo: Steps2Health (Photo: Steps2Health)

Chris, backed by Annie, kept to footpaths and pavements for a mud-free circuit of the town and millponds. They had the unexpected bonus of passing a band playing carols and an unconnected choir of carol singers, both giving rousing performances. Everyone really enjoyed their last out of town walk for this year.

On December 20, Steps2Health held its annual Santa Walk with everyone wearing their Santa hats. It was a sunny but cold winter’s day, as 35 members assembled at Battery Gardens in Tenby. Chris, backed by Annie, led the Steadies through the town, then headed down Crackwell Street to reach the harbour. Meanwhile Brian and Barbara took the Speedies across a very windy South Beach.

Steps2Health’s annual Santa Walk
Steps2Health’s annual Santa Walk (Photo: Steps2Health)

After the Steadies completed a lap of the North Beach, they headed for St John’s Church and the festive mulled wine and mince pies on offer. They joined up with the Speedies on the way, so everyone arrived together. Many of the walkers then headed to St Mary’s church, to attend the lunchtime carol concert given by the church handbell ringers.

For more information about the club, visit www.steps2health.org.uk or call 07967 056466.