THIRTY-FIVE walkers took the coach to Church Stretton for a day with fine views and walks.

Grahame Reid led a linear “A” walk, starting at Craven Arms. The route crossed to Plowden, taking in Hopesay and Wart Hills. Followed by a steep climb up Black Knoll onto the Long Mynd following the Jack Mytton Way before descending to Church Stretton having walked 14 and three quarters miles and a climb of 2000 feet.

The “B” walk, led by Barbara Penlington headed for the Long Mynd via Carding Mill Valley. The route crossed the Portway, joining the Shropshire way at Ratlinghope following to Stanbach. A climb took them to Pole Bank, before crossing moorland to Townbrook valley and descending back to Church Stretton a total of 11 and a half miles with a 2200 ft ascent.

David Brunt led the “C” party on a nine mile linear walk, starting at Leebotwood. A gentle climb took the group to a path that skirted the Lawley, Caer Caradoc and finally Hope Bowdler Hill finishing at Hope Bowdler. The group retraced their steps for half a mile before heading into Church Stretton.

Rosie McKenzie’s “D” party began their walk at Watling Street before joining a bridleway to leave the town. After skirting Ragleth Wood, the walk continued around Hazler Hill to head NE to ‘Cwims Cottage’ then left to Church Stretton. 

The next coach trip is on October 12 to Arnside. Contact Barbara Ward on 01565 651765.

Alan Milligan