Steps2Health's August walking adventures across Pembrokeshire

WHILE much of the month saw continued drought, the start of August brought ideal weather for a walk. The first of the month was sunny and fresh, a welcome change from the stifling heat of the previous few weeks as 47 Steps2Health members gathered at New Hedges village hall for a walk to Tenby.

The Steadies, led by Chris and backed by Barbara, turned on to the Old Tenby Road for the gradual climb up to Turnpike Cottages. It was downhill thereafter, via the old cemetery. The effects of the heatwave were very evident ,with tinder-dry, brown grass and a lack of wild flowers. The Speedies, headed by Kym and backed by Jane, took the more strenuous route via Waterwynch hill, up on to the Coast Path and onwards to Tenby. On arrival, all the walkers dispersed to try and find refreshments in the town, which was crammed full of visitors.

The second Saturday of August was another lovely sunny day, bringing out 36 members. Barbara, with chair Jane, led the Speedies through the historic and atmospheric Nabbs. Thanks to some great work by the footpaths teams, the path was wide and clear of undergrowth, a delight to walk. There was water still to be seen in the Ritec despite the abundance of pink and white Himalayan Balsam.

The Steadies were led by Chris and Annie. After a circuit of Black Rock, Kiln Park and the Salterns, the heat was starting to take its toll. The leaders resisted the temptation to jump on the Park and Ride bus, but the group did split into two. Some walked back to town via Park Road, the most direct route, while the rest continued via St John’s Hill, Merlins Gardens and the Norton.

On the third Saturday of August, the excessive heat had subsided once more, as 31 Steps2Health stalwarts headed to Saundersfoot. After the usual briefing, Kym and Jane led the Speedies via the Strand to Coppet Hall. Annie and Chris followed behind with the Steadies.

By the time the Steadies reached their first junction, the Speedies had crossed the road and were powering off towards St Issell’s Church.

The Steadies continued on to Wiseman’s bridge before returning to Saundersfoot. The Speedies continued via the Ridgeway and the Incline to the centre of the village and the finish. As usual, everyone split into smaller groups and searched for refreshments among the cafes of the village.

On Saturday, August 22, Steps2Health Walking Club headed for East Williamston. The relentless draught continued, but the heatwave was replaced by normal Pembrokeshire summer temperatures.

Kym led the Speedies, backed by Chair Jane, while Chris led the Steadies, supported by Annie. Both groups headed for East Williamston Jubilee Park and Nature Trail, the Steadies going directly, while the Speedies took a dog-leg to build in some space between the groups. The park was surprisingly green, but the trees and shrubs were showing the sorry effects of the draught. The walkers really enjoyed the route.

Everyone ended up back at East Williamston Community Hall where tea, coffee and a lovely selection of yummy cakes were waiting.

For the last club walk of the month, the club had a town walk amid proper Pembrokeshire Bank Holiday weekend weather! Twenty-two well-clad walkers turned out at Battery Gardens, despite the rainy conditions. They split into two groups and weaved their way to the Croft.

Led by Jane and Barbara, the Speedies turned left up to Allen’s View for a better look at the rain - or so we imagine, for there was nothing else to be seen. The Steadies, led by Annie and Chris, turned right and headed back into town.

The Speedies caught them up at the top of the North Beach zigzag and everyone then split up into smaller groups to search out refreshments.

Steps2Health is an entry level walking club, walking for up to an hour, every Saturday, year round. Visit www.steps2health.org.uk or phone 07967 056466 to find out more.