Long Walks

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Ambergate to Cromford and Shining Cliff Woods Walk – 1 September 2026

On Tuesday, 1 September, we set off on an enjoyable and challenging linear walk, beginning with a train journey from Ambergate to Cromford. From Cromford, we started our return journey on foot, following a varied route through open fields and beautiful Derbyshire countryside.

The walk provided plenty of variety, with quiet country paths, expansive views and some lovely stretches through woodland. As we made our way towards Alderwasley, the route became more demanding, with a number of steady ascents and descents. Although the terrain was not excessively difficult, it certainly provided a good stiff workout and was a rewarding challenge for the group.

From Alderwasley, we continued through the attractive Shining Cliff Woods, enjoying the peaceful woodland surroundings and the changing scenery. The final section brought us back towards Ambergate, completing a satisfying circular-style return to our starting point.

Overall, it was a very enjoyable walk, combining countryside, woodland and some worthwhile hills. The weather was kind to us, making the conditions ideal for walking. Everyone appeared to enjoy the route, and the combination of scenery and physical challenge made it a particularly good day out.

Mark Thornley

Short Walks

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Short Walks – 20th August

This month our short (4 mile) walk was planned and led by Phil and Liz Attenborough who write:

A small but select group of walkers braved the threat of rain and enjoyed a very pleasant walk round Martins Pond, Harrison’s Plantation and the Raleigh Pond Nature Reserves at Wollaton, before venturing into Wollaton Park.

Not many people are aware of these ponds, but they are well worth a visit, they all have connections with the old Nottingham Canal.

PS it didn’t rain until we got back to Hucknall!

Our thanks to Liz and Phil.

The next walk on Thursday 17th September will be led by Mark Thornley

David Rose

Science Group

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The main aim of the meeting was to conclude our invention’s theme.

We began with ‘Miss Shilling’s Orifice’.

Beatrice ‘Tilly’ Shilling (1909-1990) was a British aeronautical engineer, motorcycle racer, and inventor best known for her work during the Second World War. She studied engineering at the University of Manchester and later joined the Royal Aircraft Establishment, where she developed the RAE Restrictor, famously known as ‘Miss Shilling’s Orifice’. This simple device helped prevent Rolls-Royce Merlin engines in Spitfire and Hurricane aircraft from losing power during steep dives, improving the effectiveness of British fighter planes. She was appointed an OBE in 1949.

This was followed by group member contributions:

Jolanta told us about the invention of instant coffee which was first patented in 1890 by David Strang in New Zealand, using a dry hot‑air process to create soluble coffee powder. Earlier liquid essences existed, but Strang’s invention made true powdered instant coffee possible, paving the way for later commercial products like Kato’s 1901 process and Nescafé’s 1938 launch.

Christine Faithfull explained how the highlighter pen was invented by Dr Frank Honnin 1963. He developed the first highlighter, which used transparent fluorescent ink to make text stand out without obscuring it.

Mary Hole’s talk about the treadmill had a surprisingly grim origin. In 1818, British engineer Sir William Cubitt introduced the penal treadmill as a form of hard labour for prisoners. It consisted of a large wheel with steps attached to it, and prisoners had to keep climbing as if walking up an endless staircase.

Another highlight was Imelda’s talk about the disposable nappy which was developed in stages rather than invented by one person on a single date.

Jean Arrowsmith concluded with Bubble Wrap, invented in 1957 by Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes, originally as wallpaper, before becoming the packaging material we know today.

We finished with a short quiz about inventions.

No meeting in September, our next meeting is 16th October.

David Rose

National Trust

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Visit to Chirk Castle on Tuesday 25th August

One of the longest journeys in this year’s programme took the group to the stunning Chirk Castle across in Wales. Arriving safely after a two and a half hour journey, our driver dropped us off at the entrance to the castle to avoid the need to make the long and uphill journey from the coach park.

Even before arriving we were treated to a beautiful view of the castle with a narrow boat crossing an aqueduct which runs near to the castle. As families made the most of the castle during the summer holidays there was a very busy feel to the day. The tours of the castle began at midday so many members chose to start the day by  viewing the extensive and beautifully kept gardens or walk around the extensive estate.

Inside, the castle demonstrated over 700 years of history. The castle is the last one covering this period still lived in today. Lavish tapestries, paintings and furniture are found throughout the castle. The many rooms include a long gallery, kitchens, dining and drawing rooms and a grand staircase, a truly splendid building. A large café, gift shop, book shop and plant shop were also to be found on site.

With the weather being kind to us we all enjoyed a great day in a truly lovely setting. The return journey saw us back in Hucknall for 7.00 pm.

September sees us visit the Shugborough Estate in Staffordshire before our final visit of the year to Fountain’s Abbey in October.                                                                               

Barrie

Vegetarian Cookery

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August’s meeting had to be cancelled but there is a meeting this month, on Monday 28th September, when 3 recipes will again be demonstrated and tasted.

This group is currently full but if anyone is interested in joining please contact me with your name and I will put you on the waiting list.

Anne