IT was a lovely morning for the first club walk of August, as 37 walkers met at Battery Gardens. Kym, supported by Brian, set a brisk pace for the Speedies, powering down to The Green. Annie followed behind at the head of the Steadies.

The Speedies continued to Butt’s Field. They turned left and charged up the hill to Allen’s View. The Steadies followed the same route, but turned right when they reached The Croft and headed for St Mary’s Church House.

Propelled by the thought of sweet and savoury snacks, they made good speed to the fundraising coffee morning being held by St Mary’s Handbell Ringers. The cake stall was soon busy, but there was still plenty left when the Speedies came streaming in 20 minutes later. Everyone went home happy especially those who also won raffle prizes.

The following Saturday was dry and somewhat fresh, but pleasantly warm in the woods, a lovely morning for a walk. 25 cheerful members turned up at Llys-y-Fran for a choice of lakeside walks. Brian, backed by Kym, set a good pace for the Speedies as they set off along the Family Trail towards the Afon Syfni Bridge. Annie, supported by Chris, led the Steadies the same way, albeit at a gentler pace.

Both groups enjoyed the peace and tranquillity and the ever changing views across the lake. The Steadies turned around first and headed back to the Visitors Centre. They were soon followed by the Speedies. Everyone enjoyed the usual excellent fare on offer in the cafe. It was another grand outing for Steps2Health.

On the 16th the weather was sunny and warm from the outset. Thirty members gathered in Saundersfoot, despite the travel issues. Jane, backed by Kym, led the Speedies through the village heading for the Coast Path and Wiseman’s Bridge. Donna, supported by Annie, followed behind at the head of the Steadies. The crowds on the streets were a real challenge, it was a pleasure to pass through the cool tunnels and get away from the worst of the congestion.

The Speedies went as far as the Heritage Park before turning around, but a number of Steadies were struggling with the heat by the time they reached Wiseman’s Bridge. They turned around and headed back to Saundersfoot. By the time they got there the crowds were bigger than ever. The weather was absolutely delightful, but it was just too hot for any serious walking.

On the last Saturday of August, despite the wet forecast, 28 walkers met outside Kilgetty Community Centre for a quiet country walk away from the visitors. Weather-wise they were in luck as it stayed dry throughout the walk. Kym, backed by Jane, led the Speedies past the Begelly Arms onto the Miners Walk. Marlene, supported by Donna, followed behind at the head of the Steadies.

As usual the Speedies pulled away and the Steadies didn’t see them again until the end. The Steadies soon turned right to pick up the end of Parsonage Lane, while the Speedies powered on towards Thomas Chapel.

The Steadies turned into the church hall, where refreshments were waiting, courtesy of the ladies of the congregation. They were soon joined by the Speedies group. As well as tea and coffee, there were biscuits and warm sausage rolls. The buzz of conversation grew ever louder, while the rain arrived and tried to drown it out. Eventually, everyone had to go into the rain to get to buses and cars. It will be Autumn for the next walk, quieter but probably cooler too.

Steps2Health is an entry level walking club and welcomes new members. Members walk for up to an hour, every Saturday, year round. Visit www.steps2health.org.uk or call 07967 056466 for more information.