Short Walks

Short Walk Report –Tuesday 17 September – 4.5 miles

Our September short walk set off from the Bird in Hand pub in Blidworth, where we gathered under bright early‑autumn skies. The morning had that perfect September feel — cool enough for a light jacket, warm enough to enjoy the open fields ahead.

The route began with a gentle climb through a patchwork of fields, several of which were home to curious horses and a small group of alpacas who watched our progress with dignified interest.

We continued south‑west toward Ravenshead, following well‑trodden paths that dipped and rose across farmland. A short stretch along Little Rickets Lane gave us a breather on firmer ground before we joined the familiar waymarks of the Robin Hood Way.

A highlight of the morning was the stop at the Fountaindale monument, tucked quietly among the trees. This historic marker — linked to local Robin Hood lore — offered a moment’s pause and a chance for a group photo before we pressed on.

The final section formed a looping, undulating return across more fields and hedgerows, giving wide views back toward Blidworth and Ravenshead.

The gentle rises made for a pleasantly varied finish, and spirits stayed high as the pub came back into sight.

On a warm day a drink at the pub was most welcome.

Our 15th October walk is a route over Bennerley Viaduct, details will be sent to the group by 7th October

David Rose

Easywheelers

After four impressive years “in the saddle” Easywheelers Cycle Group leader Jim Spray took to the lanes one last time in his official role, guiding the team in his usual position as the back marker on a relaxed and good humoured farewell ride.

 Starting from Hucknall Leisure Centre, we headed out along the Newstead Trail, enjoying familiar stretches of woodland and open views as we headed towards Newstead Abbey.

From there, the group continued through to Blidworth and on towards Calverton.

 Jim had chosen the route to have a well earned coffee stop at his favourite café in the small Calverton shopping precinct. However, we were in for a surprise – it was closed.

Decision time – Greggs in the precinct or riding on to Springwater Golf Club a new venue for the group to a café that didn’t disappoint.

At Springwater Jim was presented with a card, chocolates and gift voucher by the Easywheelers route masters John Saunders and Brian Carr.

The return leg was via Burntstump with the long climb up Gravelly Hollow .

Jim may be handing over the reins, but hopefully his legacy of safe, sociable cycling will keep rolling on.

David Rose

Growing Old Disgracefully

The September activity for the Growing Old Disgracefully ladies was a Chocolate Experience.

Lisa our teacher, first explained that the pods from the Cacao Tree contain seeds or beans, which are used to make chocolate and cocoa powder. Lisa went on to explain the procedure that the beans go through, before demonstrating other procedures.

We were then left to our own devices to create a variety of shapes and designs. It was a wonderful, messy but fun activity, with chocolate going everywhere including our clothes, even though we had aprons on. Some of us found we had to lick our fingers, as the chocolate magically appeared on them!!!

The afternoon finished with us all going home with lots of lovely yummy chocolate made without any additives.

Margaret Whilde

Social Committee

Following our recent very successful concert with the Bestwood Male Voice Choir, we have been asked to circulate the attached poster showing their participation in a 60 year Remembrance Concert for the Aberfan Appeal.

Please contact them direct for tickets for this very worthy cause if you wish to attend.

Regards

Melvyn Francis