Walking & Cycling Newsletter

Transcription

1 Sefton s Summer Walking & Cycling Newsletter Issue 48 / July September 2018 ALL OUR Walks & Rides ARE FREE Something for everyone with this Summer s walks and rides.

2 Contents Walking Walking Diary 3 Monday 4 Maghull Health Walks Netherton Feelgood Factory Health Walks Crosby Health Walks Ainsdale Health Walks Tuesday 6 Bootle Health Walks Hesketh Park Health Walks Formby Pinewoods Health Walks Box Tree Health Walks Macmillan Health Walks Waterloo Health Walks Wednesday 8 Wednesday Social Walks Litherland Sports Park Walking Club Sefton Trailblazers Seaforth Health Walks Thursday 10 Formby Pool Health Walks Prambles Southport May Logan Health Walks Ainsdale Sands and Sea Health Walks Walking for Health in Hesketh Park Walking & Cycling News 12 Nordic Walks 18 Friday 20 Southport Central Health Walks Sefton Opera Health Walks Southport Promenade Health Walks Southport & Formby Macmillan Health Walks Dunes Health Walks Buggy Babes Bootle Saturday 22 Kings Gardens Health Walks Sunday 22 Sunday Health Walks Cycling Cycling Diary 23 Pedal Away 24 Southport Hesketh Centre 25 Macmillan Rides 25 Tour de Friends 26 The Chain Gang 27 Tyred Rides 28 Ditch your Stabilisers 29 Dr Bike Free Bicycle Maintenance 30 Wheels for All 31 Introduction Some of us might feel that we have already had our Summer, the weather in May and early June was fantastic and unexpected, the warmest May since records began. Whether you like walking, cycling or both there are plenty of routes across Sefton to enjoy either as part of a group or independently. Walking Diary Active Walks is Sefton s local health walk programme and offers a significant number of regular walking groups across Sefton. The walks continue throughout the year and are led by volunteers. The walks range from 10 to 30 minutes up to 90 minutes for the Walking for Health walks and 90 to 150 minutes for walks beyond Walking for Health. Walking is the perfect exercise as it places little stress upon bones and joints but uses over 200 muscles within the body and can help develop and maintain fitness. ALL OUR Walks ARE FREE Please arrive 15 mins early for your first walk as you will need to fill in a Registration Form. Please note: Please attend a Grade 3 walk before joining a Progressional Walk. Progressional Walks: brisk pace, varied terrain, can include stiles/steps/gradients and uneven surfaces. Guide dogs are allowed on all health walks. Grade 1: suitable for people who have not walked much before. Grade 2: suitable for people who are looking to increase their activity levels. Grade 3: for people looking for more challenging walks. Special Interest walks: health walks with a twist. Progressional walks: for people who have undertaken Walking for Health Grade 3 walks and are now looking to take their next steps. 3

3 MONDAY Maghull Health Walks Walk leaders: Sheila, Chris and Sue Time: 10.00am Place: Maghull Health Centre (outside building), L31 0DJ The Maghull walks will take around 90 minutes to complete, the walks are based around the rural areas of Maghull/Sefton and Lydiate so suitable clothing and footwear will be required. The group use local cafes to have a tea/coffee stop and a chat. NEW WALK 2nd Jul: Frank Hornby 16th Jul: Hartley s 6th Aug: Sefton Meadows 20th Aug: Village Diner 3rd Sep: The Alt 17th Sep: Lunt Meadows Bring own refreshments ( ) no toilet facilities Crosby Health Walks Walk leaders: Beryl, Sue and John Time: 10.30am Place: Crosby Library (foyer), Crosby Rd North, Crosby L22 0LQ We meet on the second and fourth Monday each month. The group sometimes use public transport so walks marked with ( ) require a travel pass or cash. We leave the Library promptly at 10.30am where transport is involved, or you can meet us at Waterloo Train Stn (when appropriate) for the 10.40am train. 9th Jul: Brooms Cross/Lunt 23rd Jul: Ferry to Seacombe/ Walk to New Brighton Meet at 10.00am prompt for 10.10am train 13th Aug: Formby Woods 27th Aug: NO WALK 10th Sep: Coastguard to Hightown 24th Sep: Rimrose Valley and Canal MONDAY PLEASE NOTE: NO WALKS ON BANK HOLIDAY Netherton Feelgood Factory Health Walks Walk leader: Billy Time: 10.00am Place: Feelgood Factory, Glovers Lane, Netherton L30 5QW The Feelgood Factory walk is a medium walk of around 60 minutes. The walking routes vary each week taking in local parks and The Leeds Liverpool Canal. All the walks start and finish at the Feelgood Factory. PLEASE NOTE: NO WALKS ON BANK HOLIDAY 2nd Jul: 4 Bridges & 2 Parks 9th Jul: Edge Lane Farm 16th Jul: Copy Farm Park 23rd Jul: Stand Park 30th Jul: Barn Owl in Jubilee Woods 6th Aug: St Benet s Benedictine Chapel 13th Aug: Canal to Ormskirk Rd 20th Aug: The Criddle Estate (Merton Village) 27th Aug: NO WALK 3rd Sep: Maghull through Jubilee Woods 10th Sep: Litherland Park Estate 17th Sep: Canal to Melling Rd 24th Sep: Rimrose Valley (The Wabbs) Ainsdale Health Walks Walk leaders: Alasdair and Paul Time: 11.00am Place: MeCycle Café (next to Ainsdale Train Stn), PR8 3HH The Ainsdale walk is a medium walk lasting for around 60 minutes, the group passes through the dunes so sensible footwear suitable for walking through dunes is advised. The group finishes with a chat and a coffee in the Mecycle Café afterwards. PLEASE NOTE: NO WALKS ON BANK HOLIDAY Jul: 2nd 9th 16th 23rd 30th Aug: 6th 13th 20th Sep: 3rd 10th 17th 24th 4 5

4 TUESDAY Bootle Health Walks Walk leaders: Anne, Delia, Helen, Sandra, Linda and Mary Time: Meeting times vary see listings Place: Meeting points vary see listings The Bootle walks are a medium walk and the group will cover distances of between 2 4 miles each week depending on location and enjoy a variety of routes across Sefton and beyond. Don t forget travel fare or pass! NB: Bootle walks are unsuitable for dogs. 3rd Jul: New Brighton Circular Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am Bootle Strand Train Stn (L pool platform) 10th Jul: Five Lamps Marina Time/Place: 9.30am St Robert Bellarmine s car park or 10.15am Swan Centre (Old Litherland Library) 17th Jul: Cressington Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am Bootle Strand Train Stn (L pool platform) 24th Jul: DAY OUT/SUMMER MEAL 31st Jul: Dobbies Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am Bootle Strand Train Stn (S port platform) Hesketh Park Health Walks Walk leaders: Tom and Peggy Time: 1.30pm Place: Hesketh Park (corner of Albert Rd/Park Rd entrance), PR9 9LN The Hesketh Park walk is a short walk of 45 minutes, gentle pace, taking in views of the lake, wildlife and gardens. 7th Aug: Wirral Country Park Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.15am Sir Thomas St, L pool 14th Aug: Hightown to Hall Rd Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am Bootle Strand Train Stn (S port platform) 21st Aug: Everton Brow Time/Place: 9.50am corner of Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.30am Great Homer St Market bus stop N.B. LATER TIME 28th Aug: Port Sunlight Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am Bootle Strand Train Stn (L pool platform) 4th Sep: Albert Dock Watts/Park Lane, Bootle or 10.30am Paradise St, L pool 11th Sep: Southport Lake Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am Bootle Strand Train Stn (S port platform) 18th Sep: Chester River Walk Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.00am Bootle Strand Train Stn (L pool platform) 25th Sep: Blue Anchor Time/Place: 10.00am corner of Watts/Park Ln, Bootle or 10.30am Netherton Feelgood Factory N.B. LATER TIME Jul: 10th 24th Aug: 7th 21st Sep: 4th 18th Formby Pinewoods Health Walks Walk leaders: Anne, Margaret and John Time: 10.30am Place: Pinewoods Pub (front) on Wicks Green (off Harington Rd), L37 1PR The Pinewoods Walk is a medium walk that will take around 75 minutes to complete at a steady pace. Box Tree Health Walks Walk leaders: Sally and Peggy Time: 11.00am Place: Box Tree Kitchen for Queenscourt, 192 Cambridge Rd, S port PR9 7LS (unless otherwise stated). A short walk of 30 minutes, at a gentle pace around Churchtown, including Botanic Gardens and the community gardens. Macmillan Health Walks Walk leader: Moira, Dave, Glenda and Veronica Time/Place: 10.30am Macmillan Information & Support Centre, 20 Stanley St, S port PR9 0BY A short walk around the gardens, pier and Marine Lake, returning to the centre for a cuppa and a chat. Waterloo Health Walks Walk leader: Chris Time: 10.30am Place: Inside Sefton Carers Centre, South Rd, Waterloo L22 5PE The Carers Centre walk is a medium walk, the walks will take around 60 minutes to complete at a relaxed pace, the group will visit various points of interest within Sefton and beyond. All the walks use the pinewoods and coastal footpaths, there will be sandy paths and gentle inclines throughout the route. Jul: 3rd 10th 17th 24th 31st Aug: 7th 14th 21st 28th Sep: 4th 11th 18th 25th Jul: 3rd 17th Meet at The Lakeside, the junction of The Promenade and Fairway 31st Aug: 14th 28th Sep: 11th 25th Jul: 3rd 10th 17th 24th 31st Aug: 7th 14th 21st 28th Sep: 4th 11th 18th 25th 17th Jul: Cressington to Aigburth 31st Jul: Stanley Park 7th Aug: Port sunlight 21st Aug: Croxteth Hall 4th Sep: Ainsdale to Freshfield 18th Sep: Southport TUESDAY 6 7

5 WEDNESDAY Wednesday Social Walks Walk leader: Mike Time: 10.00am (unless otherwise stated). Place: The Atkinson, Lord St, S port PR8 1DB (unless otherwise stated). The Southport walks are longer walks and visit a variety of locations across Merseyside and Lancashire. 4th Jul: Pier and Kings Garden 11th Jul: Otterspool Prom 10.00am, S port Train Stn to catch 10.13am train 18th Jul: Marine Lake 25th Jul: Avenham Park, Preston 10.00am, Lord St, outside Debenhams to catch 10.08am X2 bus Litherland Sports Park Walking Club Walk leaders: Ged, Joe, John, Mike and Sid Time: 10.00am N.B. LATER TIME Place: Seaforth & Litherland Train Stn Contact: PLEASE BRING ALONG A PACKED LUNCH NB: no dogs allowed on these walks. 4th Jul: Port Sunlight to Rock Ferry (6) Central / Wirral Line 11th Jul: Rainford Town Green (7) Sandhills / Kirkby 18th Jul: Ainsdale Formby Woods (6.5) Ainsdale 25th Jul: Willaston Circular (6) Central / Wirral Line 1st Aug: Birkdale via Victoria Park and Rotten Row 8th Aug: Halsall to Scarisbrick Marina 9.55am, Eastbank St to catch 9.58am 300 bus 15th Aug: Dobbies 22nd Aug: Freshfield to Ainsdale 10.00am, S port Train Stn to catch 10.13am train 29th Aug: Hesketh Park 5th Sep: Hall Road to Waterloo 10.00am, S port Train Stn to catch 10.13am train 12th Sep: Botanical Garden 19th Sep: New Brighton 10.00am, S port Train Stn to catch 10.13am train 26th Sep: Birkdale via Duke St and The Walk 1st Aug: Chester Walls via Roodee (5) Central / Wirral Line 8th Aug: Ormskirk Aughton Park (6) Ormskirk 15th Aug: Maghull Melling (5) Maghull 22nd Aug: Eastham Country Park (5) Central / Wirral Line 29th Aug: Upholland to Rainford (5.8) Sandhills / Kirkby 5th Sep: Heswall West Kirby (6) Bus at Sir Thomas St 12th Sep: Carr Mill Dam (5.3) Central / Lime Street 19th Sep: Eastham Rake to Hooton (6) Central / Wirral Line 26th Sep: Coach Trip TBA (0) denotes approximate mileage of each walk Sefton Trailblazers Walk leaders: Gill and Margaret Time: Meeting times vary see listings Place: Meeting points vary see listings There is a great choice of walks across Sefton from the beach and dunes and coastal paths, to the Leeds Liverpool Canal towpath, to country footpaths, lanes and other open areas. The Sefton Trailblazers Walking group explores all that is on offer using Merseyrail stations as start and finishing points. The walks are usually between 5 7 miles in length and last between 90 minutes to 2 1/2 hours and are undertaken at a brisk pace. NB: no dogs allowed on these walks. Walks in BLACK start/finish at the same train station, walks in PURPLE start/finish at a different station. 4th Jul: Velvet Trail* Time/Place: 10.30am Ainsdale Train Stn finish at Birkdale Train Stn 11th Jul: Mersey Way & Hale Village* Time/Place: 10.35am Brunswick Train Stn to catch bus to outskirts of Hale Village Walk includes pub lunch 18th Jul: Waddicar Time/Place: 10.50am Old Roan Train Stn Seaforth Health Walks Walk leader: Lin Time: 10.15am Place: Seaforth & Litherland Train Stn (platform) NB: All walks are 2 3 miles long. 4th Jul: 4 Parks Crosby. (alight Waterloo Train Stn) 11th Jul: S port Pier & Kings Gardens (alight S port Train Stn) 18th Jul: New Brighton (alight Central Train Stn) 25th Jul: NO WALK 1st Aug: NO WALK 25th Jul: Formby Moss* Time/Place: 10.30am Formby Train Stn finish at F field Train Stn 1st Aug: Crosby Promenade Time/Place: 10.30am B sands & Crosby Train Stn 8th Aug: Lunt Meadows* Time/Place: 10.30am Hall Rd Train Stn finish at Maghull Train Stn 15th Aug: Freshfield Dune Heath* Time/Place: 10.30am Freshfield Train Stn 22nd Aug: Canal Walk* Time/Place: 10.35am Bankhall Train Stn finish at Waterloo Train Stn 29th Aug: Footpaths & Quiet Lanes Time/Place: 10.55am Maghull Train Stn 5th Sep: Sefton Park* Time/Place: 10.35am St Michaels Train Stn 12th Sep: Woodland Walk* Time/Place: 10.30am Formby Train Stn 19th Sep: Dunes & Meadows* Time/Place: 10.35am Hightown Train Stn 26th Sep: North Wirral Coastal Walk* Lunch at The Lighthouse at the end of the walk Time/Place: 10.45am Moreton Train Stn finish at Wallasey Grove Rd Train Stn (*) denotes an opportunity at the end of the walk to stop at a pub or café for refreshments. 8th Aug: Port Sunlight (alight Central Train Station) 15th Aug: Cressington (alight Cressington Train Stn) 22nd Aug: Crosby Marina (alight Waterloo Train Stn) 29th Aug: Ainsdale Board Walk (alight Ainsdale Train Stn) 5th Sep: Crosby to Hightown (alight Hall Road Train Stn) 12th Sep: Ormskirk (alight Sandhills Train Stn) 19th Sep: 2 Parks (alight B sands & Crosby Train Stn) 26th Sep: Leeds Liverpool Canal (alight Bootle New Strand Train Stn) WEDNESDAY 8 9

6 THURSDAY Formby Pool Health Walks Walk leaders: Hilary and Sue Time: 10.30am Place: Formby Pool (main reception area), Formby L37 4AB The Formby Pool walk is a longer walk at a quick pace and will take around minutes to complete. There are routes to suit everybody and include Cabin Hill Nature Reserve, National Trust Nature Reserve and Natural England Nature Reserve. Please wear footwear suitable for walking through dunes, along woodland paths and on uneven ground. Prambles Southport Prambles are an amble with your pram, free to join, friendly and active. The group walk for 60 minutes and sometimes stop off at a local café for a cuppa. Walk leader: Steph Time: 10.30am (unless otherwise stated). Place: Linaker Childrens Centre, Linaker St, S port PR8 5DB (entrance), unless otherwise stated. 5th Jul: Kew Woods and Dobbies 12th Jul: Crosby Promenade and Lakeside Bistro Time/Place: 10.25am at Birkdale Train Stn (on platform) Summer Evening Walks Enjoy some evening strolls along our wonderful coast. All walks last 90 mins (approx). Walk leader: Steph Time: 6.30pm Place: Start locations vary, see listings. 5th Jul: Squirrel Walk 12th Jul: Orchid Walk 19th Jul: Wicks Wood 26th Jul: Ainsdale Hills 2nd Aug: Nicotine Woods 9th Aug: Devil s Hole 16th Aug: Asparagus Fields 23rd Aug: Lifeboat Lane 30th Aug: Beach Walk 6th Sep: Golf Course Walk 13th Sep: Mystery Walk 20th Sep: Mushroom Walk (Meet 10.30am Freshfield Train Stn, bottom large car park) 27th Sep: Lost Resort Trail 19th Jul: Kings Gardens 26th Jul: NO WALK 2nd Aug: NO WALK 9th Aug: Kings Gardens 16th Aug: Kew Woods and Dobbies 10.25am, Birkdale Train Stn 23rd Aug: Ainsdale Boardwalk Trail 10.25am, Birkdale Train Stn 30th Aug: Formby Pinewoods 10.25am, Birkdale Train Stn 6th Sep: Liverpool Prom Cressington 10.25am, Birkdale Train Stn 13th Sep: Southport Seafront 20th Sep: Kew Woods and Dobbies 27th Sep: Victoria Park Circular 16th Aug: Formby Trail Place: Formby Train Stn 30th Aug: Hightown Coast Place: Hightown Train Stn 20th Sep: Ainsdale Woods Place: Ainsdale Train Stn May Logan Health Walks Walk leaders: Debbie, Dot, Brenda, Cath, John and Sue Time: 10.00am Place: All the walks start at May Logan Healthy Living Centre, L20 5DQ The May Logan walk is a medium walk that will take around 60 minutes to complete at a gentle pace. The walking group enjoys short walks in and around the Bootle and Litherland area, taking in routes along the canal and local parks. Ainsdale Sands and Sea Health Walks Walk leaders: Margaret and Pauline Time: 10.30am Place: MeCycle Café (next to Ainsdale Train Stn), PR8 3HH The Ainsdale Sands walk is a medium walk lasting approximately mins at a reasonable pace, some of the walks will include small hills in the sand dunes. These walks offer extensive views of the sea and Sefton coastline and finish with a chat and a coffee in MeCycle Cafe. If you wish to join the group, please wear sensible waterproof footwear suitable for wet, boggy paths. Walking for Health in Hesketh Park Walk leaders: Jen, Barbara, Gilly, Vic, Sue and Lisa Time: 1.30pm Place: Hesketh Park Cafe, PR9 9NW A medium walk of 45 minutes in Hesketh Park, this walk is ideal for anyone wanting to increase their activity levels. The walk provides the perfect opportunity to chat to others whilst keeping active. 5th Jul: Hatton Hill 12th Jul: Crosby Marina 19th Jul: Derby Park 26th Jul: Rimrose Valley 2nd Aug: Little Merton Hike 9th Aug: 3 Park Loop 16th Aug: Crosby Marina 23rd Aug: Hatton Hill 30th Aug: Rimrose Valley 6th Sep: Derby Park 13th Sep: 3 Park Loop 20th Sep: Little Merton Hike 27th Sep: Hatton Hill Jul: 12th 26th Aug: 9th 23rd Sep: 6th 20th Jul: 5th 12th 19th 26th Aug: 2nd 9th 16th 23rd 30th Sep: 6th 13th 20th 27th THURSDAY 10 11

7 News So long Ross, good luck in your new job! Reluctantly we had to say goodbye to Ross Adams our Cycling Developing Officer in April. After 8 years working within the Active Travel Team he has moved on to a new challenge, still all cycling related obviously! Staying with Cycling UK, but now based in Manchester, we are sure he will be very successful in his new role as Cycling Development Programme Manager. Throughout his time he has walked (yes he did walk, he was a trained health walk leader too) and cycled thousands of miles in and around Sefton, that s not including his commute on his bike from Cheshire which he would do regularly. The mind boggles as to how many bikes he has fixed and maintained over the years but the number will be in the high hundreds, maybe more. When Ross first arrived in Sefton he was the lead for the Bike Club Programme in the borough, a Cycling UK initiative, after a couple of years he then moved into the new role of Cycling Development Officer, a role he thoroughly enjoyed and found rewarding. Ross has helped and supported many people throughout his time here, including assisting adults with learning to ride a bike, getting youngsters to ditch their stabilisers, training volunteer leaders, providing bike maintenance courses and working with many different organisations to encourage more cycling and safe cycling. Thank you Ross for all your hard work. Leisure Cycle Routes Did you know that Sefton and the surrounding areas are full of cycle routes ideal for leisure cycling? From our original Shrimp and Marram routes in Southport, devised way back in 2009, we now have routes in Formby, Maghull, Crosby, Burscough and Ormskirk in addition to our longer Pier to Pier, Churches & Monuments and our ever popular Sefton Circular routes. Southport Cycle Hire celebrations! This Summer marks the 10th season of Southport Cycle Hire and to celebrate we will be having lots of special offers throughout the next few months. If you haven t tried our service yet, now could be the best time. Even without the offers, our prices are very reasonable. By pre-booking, you can hire 4 bikes for up to 4 hours for only 20 or keep the bikes all day for only 36. We have bikes for all the family including child seats, trailers and tag-a-longs and have centres both at the Eco Centre, Southport and Crosby Lakeside Ranging from 3 miles right through to 35 miles long, there is bound to be something to suit everyone. Why not give them a try! The route maps are available on the VISIT website: visitseftonandwestlancs.co.uk/ cycleroutes Or you can request copies through the contact form. All our routes are also available for collection at the Eco Centre, S port. Adventure Centre, Crosby Coastal Road. Both these locations are ideally placed for trying out some of our leisure routes. Open every day and providing a lovely way to check out our area, what s not to like! We are now also on Trip Advisor so why not give us a review? For more information, log on to the VISIT website: visitseftonandwestlancs.co.uk/ cyclehire 12 13

8 News Enjoying Longer Walks in Sefton The Challenge Walks in Numbers: 23½ miles walked 8 hours walking 35 people taking part Over 2 million steps taken Over 58,000 each There was a good turn out on the two challenge walks in late May and early June, a big thank you to everyone who took part. The first challenge A big 14 miler, started at Victoria Park and finished at Victoria Park, with one in Crosby and the other in Southport. The weather was hot, hot, hot, as we made our way through Victoria Park towards Crosby Promenade, we warmed up extremely quickly and soon got into our stride. We made our way along the coastal path from Crosby to Hightown where we saw a Sand Lizard cross the path in front of us that made our day. At Hightown we all jumped on the train to Freshfield, none of the walkers knew until the day, they were still going to do all 14 miles on foot. Once off the train, there was a short delay as some used the facilities at the station, then we were on our way again towards Southport. We stopped for lunch at the picnic benches halfway to Ainsdale and then walked up to the railway bridge on the coastal road and continued alongside the road through the dunes to Southport. We had a quick photo in Victoria Park near the play area, unfortunately our planned stop at the Bandstand was closed off to us because of the caravans, but we were all so happy to be near the finish we weren t too bothered. The second challenge Involved walking along three of Sefton s beaches, Formby, Hightown and Crosby. Again the weather was hot, the sun was beating down on us as we made our way on to Formby Beach using the extended board walk off Lifeboat Road car park. We walked along the beach and turned off at Cabin Hill Nature Reserve just before the Altcar Rifle Range boundary. We walked along Hoggs Hill path up to the railway and turned right towards Hightown using the dual use path, there were quite a few cyclists using the path that day so we had to keep our wits about us. We made our way on to the path alongside the River Alt that led us on to Hightown beach, when we looked back towards Formby Point we could just about make out where we had left the beach 1 hour earlier. The group made its way onto the coastal path towards Crosby and once at the promenade made their way down the slip-way onto the beach. Crosby Beach was busy with people making the most of the incredible weather we were having, the tide was high so the group walked along the tide line which was lovely, you could only see some of the heads of the Iron Men. The group finished the walk at Blundellsands and Crosby Train Station, a good 9.5 miles along our coast. The locations of our railway stations are perfect to enjoy walks along our coast so you can make them as long or as short as you want. Summer Challenge Tue 28th August: Off-Road Challenge Walk 10 miles Time/Place: 10.15am Freshfield Train Stn Woods and Sand Dunes Walk Please bring a packed lunch. A 10 mile walk through the woods and sand dunes between Freshfield and Ainsdale, all off road along woodland trails and sandy paths. Some of the route will include slopes (up and down), there are a few sand dunes and paths to hike over but they are gentle and stiles to step over. Sefton Cycle Chat A chance for residents of Sefton to come together and discuss all things cycling, so if you have any information you would like to share, concerns or just want to listen to what is being said then please come along. Tuesday 3rd July 6.00pm 8.00pm at MeCycle Café (next to Ainsdale Train Stn) PR8 3HH NEXT MEETING 14 15

9 16 News World Environment Family Day On Saturday 9th June, in partnership with the Eco Centre s award winning education service and the on-site fabulous cycle hire service, World Environment Family Day took place. It was a glorious day, celebrating all things environmental and the 10th season of Southport Cycle Hire and we could not have asked for better weather. Active Travel were also on hand offering lots of advice and information about walking and cycling. As part of the day, people had the chance to contribute to the design of a legacy sculpture made from reclaimed bike wheels which will now be on permanent display in the Eco Centre. Our wooden cycle ramp course took centre stage and we had lots of children as well as mums and dads having a go. Dr Bike was on hand offering free health checks to anyone who brought their own bike along and Merseyside Police Safer Roads Problem Solving Team came along to showcase their Close Pass Initiative demonstrating safe passing distances for cyclists. The event was also supported by several community groups and organisations including the soon to be new neighbours of the Eco Centre, Southport Lifeboat. Also in attendance were RSPB, local scouts groups and the Gillmoss Recycling Discovery Centre. There were also prize draws, free eco-friendly gifts and special offers on cycle hire. If you came along, we hope you enjoyed it. Volunteers had a Bloomin Good Day at Bodnant This year the volunteers away day crossed over the border into Wales and visited Bodnant Gardens, a National Trust property in Colwyn Bay. It had been raining in the morning as we made our way on two coaches, as there were 68 of us (and quite a few couldn t make it) but by the time we arrived at Bodnant Gardens it had cleared up so everyone could wander without umbrellas and waterproofs. Quite a few of us rushed in to the tea rooms for a mid-morning cuppa and snack as we had been on the coach for two hours, whilst others wanted to stretch their legs and went straight to the gardens. VOLUNTEERS AWAY DAY The gardens were full of colour, bright colours which complemented the large number of trees throughout the grounds. The only disappointing moment was when we realised that the Laburnum Arch wasn t quite ready and would flower in a couple of weeks which of course was too late for us. There is so much to explore at Bodnant, we could have done with another hour or so. We left Bodnant Gardens for a local pub the Afon Conwy to enjoy our lunch and with starters and mains for 68 people they did an excellent job. The food was good and the company tip top. Our volunteer leaders do a fantastic job, they lead walks and cycle rides every week throughout the year providing regular opportunities for the residents of Sefton and beyond to get active. Thank You. 17

10 Monday mornings > MAGHULL: 2nd/4th week 60 mins Walk Leaders: Margaret and Diane Time/Place: 10.15am at Meadows Leisure Centre, Hall Ln, Maghull L31 7BB Jul: 9th 23rd Aug: 13th Sep: 10th 24th Tuesday mornings > CROSBY: weekly 60 mins Walk Leader: Barbara Time/Place: 7.00am at Crosby Leisure Centre Mariners Rd, Crosby L23 6SX Tuesday evenings > FRESHFIELD: weekly 60 mins Walk leader: Steph Thursday mornings > CROSBY: weekly 60 mins Walk Leader: Barbara Time/Place: 7.00am at Crosby Leisure Centre Mariners Rd, Crosby L23 6SX Friday mornings > CROSBY: weekly 60 mins Walk leaders: Joyce, > CROSBY: fortnightly 90 mins Walk leaders: Liz and Peter Time/Place: 10.30am at Crosby Leisure Centre, Mariners Rd, Crosby L23 6SX Jul: 7th 21st Aug: 4th 18th Sep: 1st 15th 29th > FRESHFIELD Nordic Walks Monday afternoons Time/Place: 6.00pm Ian and Linda fortnightly 60 mins > FORMBY: at Freshfield Pub car Time & Place: 10.30am Walk Leaders: weekly 90 mins park, Massam s Lane, at Crosby Leisure Centre Phil and Regina Walk leaders: Formby L37 7BD (swimming baths), Time/Place: 10.30am at Enjoy the great choice of Nordic Angela and Barbara Wednesday mornings Mariners Rd, Crosby Freshfield Pub car park, Time/Place: 1.00pm > WATERLOO: L23 6SX Massam s Lane, Formby Walking groups available every at Formby Library weekly 60 mins Saturday mornings L37 7BD Duke St, Formby Walk leaders: Pat, Peter, > FORMBY: Jul: 7th 21st week throughout the Summer. L37 4AN Liz and Howard fortnightly 90 mins Aug: 4th 18th If you have completed the Nordic Monday evenings Time/Place: 10.30am Walk leader: Angela Sep: 1st 15th 29th > MAGHULL: at Crosby Lakeside Time/Place: 10.30am Technique Training Course then weekly 90 mins Adventure Centre at Formby Library, Learn to Nordic Walk leaders: Brenda, (Bistro side), Cambridge Duke St, Formby Training Courses get along to your nearest one, Ian, John, Margaret, Rd, Waterloo L22 1RR L37 4AN Learn to Nordic even if it has been a while since Diane > WATERLOO: 14th Jul: Formby to Training Courses Time/Place: 6.30pm LONGER WALKS Ainsdale will be back in the you did the training, you will get at Lydiate Parish Hall Rimrose Valley & Canal Linear walk, bring pass Autumn. The 4 hour 288 Southport Rd, monthly 90 mins or money for return courses are free and back into the swing of things. Lydiate L31 4EQ Walk leaders: Pat, Peter, 28th Jul: Devil s Hole are limited to 12 > CROSBY: Liz and Howard 11th Aug: Observation places. If you do book Nordic Walking is a great exercise weekly 60 mins Time/Place: 10.00am deck and beach a place on one of the and when done correctly has Walk leaders: at Waterloo Community 25th Aug: Nordic courses and then find Liz and Peter Centre, 26 Great Georges Challenge Maghull to out that you re unable many benefits. The poles Time/Place: 6.15pm Rd, Waterloo L22 1RD Scarisbrick Marina to attend please can at Crosby Leisure Centre, Jul: 25th Aug: 29th 10 miles approx along you give as much improve posture, increase Mariners Rd, Crosby Sep: 26th canal, bring pass or notice as possible as your walking speed and work L23 6SX Wednesday afternoons money to return we struggle to fill the PLEASE NOTE: > SOUTHPORT: 8th Sep: Alexander Rd places a day before. the upper body. NO WALKS ON weekly 60 mins Dune and beach BANK HOLIDAYS Walk leaders: Georgina, 22nd Sep: Fisherman s John and Steph Path Time/Place: 2.00pm LONGER WALK at Dunes Splash World, 18 Esplanade PR8 1RX 19

11 FRIDAY Southport Central Health Walks Walk leaders: Tony, Peggy and Tom Time: 10.30am Place: Dunes Splash World (reception area), S port PR8 1RX The Southport Central walks are gentle paced walks of around minutes, taking in routes such as Victoria Park, Jubilee Nature Trail and Marine Lake. Sefton Opera Health Walks Walk leaders: Val and Anne Time: 10.30am Place: St. Matthew s Church/Sefton Opera, 410 Stanley Rd, L20 5AE (Press buzzer, mention the walk, first floor.) The Sefton Opera walks will last minutes, the group visit local parks and greenspaces with time at the end for a cup of tea or coffee and a chat. N.B. These walks are for anyone over the age of 50. Southport Promenade Health Walks Walk leaders: Steph, Steve and Pat Time: 1.30pm N.B. NEW TIME Place: Macmillan Information & Support Centre, 20 Stanley St, S port PR9 0BY (off Nevill Street) This walk is open to everybody. The Promenade walks will take around 60 minutes and circle the prom, parks and gardens close by. This is a medium walk and is ideal for people who would like to increase their physical activity levels gradually. Jul: 6th 13th 20th 27th Aug: 3rd 10th 17th 24th 31st Sep: 7th 14th 21st 28th Jul: 6th 13th 20th 27th Aug: 3rd 10th 17th 24th 31st Sep: 7th 14th 21st 28th Jul: 13th 27th Aug: 10th 24th Sep: 14th 28th Southport & Formby Macmillan Health Walks Walk leaders: Moira, Joan, Steve and Pat Time: 11.30am N.B. EARLIER TIME The Macmillan walks are medium walks but have a shorter option meaning walks can last for around 20 minutes instead of the medium walks of minutes. The walks take place on the first Friday of each month and are for anybody affected by cancer. The walks take place at various locations around Sefton and West Lancs. Dunes Health Walks Walk leaders: Jean and Trefor Time: 1.30pm Place: Dunes Splash World, (outside the main entrance by the seating), S port PR8 1RX The Dunes walks are medium length walks at a good pace and the walks last approximately 75 minutes N.B. NEW WALK LENGTH Buggy Babes Bootle Prambles are an amble with your pram, free to join, friendly and active. The group walk for 60 minutes and sometimes stop off at a local café for a cuppa. Walk leader: Louise Time: 9.30am Place: May Logan Healthy Living Centre 294 Knowsley Rd, Bootle L20 5DQ For all enquiries please contact walk leader Louise on th Jul: Ainsdale Boardwalk Place: MeCycle Café (next to Ainsdale Train Stn), PR8 3HH 3rd Aug: Burscough Canal Walk Place: Burscough Train Stn 7th Sep: Crosby Iron Men Place: B sands & Crosby Train Stn The group walk along the coast and enjoy eye-catching views of the Sefton coastline which include the sea wall path, Velvet Trail, Marine Lake, Jubilee Trail, Kings Gardens and Victoria Park. Jul: 6th 20th Aug: 3rd 17th 31st Sep: 7th 21st Jul: 6th 13th 20th 27th Aug: 3rd 10th 17th 24th 31st August Sep: 7th 14th 21st 28th Free tea and coffee back at the May Logan Healthy Living Centre at the end of each walk. FRIDAY 20 21

12 SATURDAY SUNDAY Kings Gardens Health Walks Walk leader: Steph Time: 10.30am Place: Carousel/beginning of Pier, S port PR8 1QX The Kings Gardens walk is a short walk at a medium pace and will take around minutes to complete. This walk is ideal for anybody who would like to build up their physical activity levels gradually, a gentle pace with the flexibility to increase if needed, the walk route stays within Kings Gardens for the main part and sometimes includes the pier and sea wall. Sunday Health Walks Walk leaders: Margaret, Brenda, Chris and Steph Time: 2.00pm The walks will continue to be fortnightly throughout the Summer months. The walks last no longer than 90 mins and are a medium pace walk. Jul: 7th 21st Aug: 4th 18th Sep: 1st 15th 29th 8th Jul: Formby Pinewoods Place: Formby Train Stn 22nd Jul: Crosby to Hightown Place: B sands & Crosby Train Stn 5th Aug: Lydiate Fields Place: Hall Lane, Lydiate (opposite Hayloft Tea Shop) 12th Aug: Hillside to Ainsdale Place: Hillside Train Stn 19th Aug: Waterloo Coast Place: Waterloo Train Stn 26th Aug: Dune Heath and Woodland Walk Place: Freshfield Train Stn 2nd Sep: Hillside to Ainsdale Place: Hillside Train Stn 16th Sep: Little Crosby Place: Hall Road Train Stn 30th Sep: Maghull Wander Place: Maghull Train Stn Cycling Diary I want to ride my bicycle, I want to ride my bike because the weather in May and June was absolutely fantastic and it is set to continue throughout the Summer, so why not. So check your bikes over, pump up the tyres and cycle for health, fun and freedom, either independently or in groups. There are so many routes to choose from and sights to see along our coast or country lanes. ALL OUR Rides ARE FREE We have our Community Cycle groups with up to 7 rides a week. There are the Ditch your Stabilisers sessions at Litherland Sports Park on Boundary Lane and Shoreside Primary in Ainsdale, plus Bike Maintenance Sessions across South Sefton. We also have our Wheels for All sessions at Litherland Sports Park twice a week

13 Pedal Away Our longest standing led rides have grown and evolved along the years; therefore to provide a ride for newer riders or returning cyclists, we have our Back in the Saddle group, this acts as a spring board for riders looking to progress or simply as a ride for those just seeking a shorter/slower ride, being just an hour in length. All our led rides within our Community Cycle Clubs programme are ridden at a leisurely pace and offer the rider the chance to chat with like-minded people, not realising the miles are ticking by. Utilising the plethora of cycle paths within Sefton and visiting the many picturesque places within the borough you ll be surprised how far and wide your bike can take you. These rides also encompass either a café stop midway or a chance to grab a brew, a slice of cake or a sandwich at the end. They are open to all, even if you don t own a bike, cycles and helmets are available to use and can be fitted to suit the rider. Tuesdays: Intermediate Riders > Litherland Sports Park Boundary Lane, Litherland L21 7LA 10.00am approx 12.00pm Fridays: Intermediate Riders > MeCycle Café 59 Station Rd, Ainsdale PR8 3HH 10.00am approx 12.30pm Fridays: Back in the Saddle Riders > MeCycle Café 59 Station Rd, Ainsdale PR8 3HH 10.00am 11.00am Bikes and helmets are available for loan advanced booking required. For Litherland Tel: cycling@sefton.gov.uk For Mecycle Tel: us@mecycle.co.uk Southport Hesketh Centre Recharge and refresh your mind and body with a gentle social cycle ride with the Hesketh Centre Mental Health and Wellbeing Team. The rides are open to anyone, they are cycled at a very easy pace and we never leave anyone behind. It s a great way to get some gentle exercise and de-stress at the same time. The rides cover a variety of routes around the Southport area and include a café stop to refuel. Macmillan Rides Specifically for people affected by cancer, these rides provide a great tonic to help raise both physical and mental wellbeing. The rides are short and ridden at a very steady pace, lasting approximately 1 hour and staying within Southport, taking in routes such as Kings Gardens and Marine Lake, Victoria Park and the Coastal Path. Some bikes and helmets are available for use if required. Rides take place every Wednesday and the group meet at: > 10.30am Hesketh Centre on the corner of Albert Rd/ Park Rd West, S port For more information, contact: Tony, the group leader Tel: Rides take place every Monday and the group meet at: > 10.15am Dunes Splash World Esplanade, S port PR8 1RX For more information, Dave, the group leader sfccg.macmillancic@nhs.net 24 25

14 Tour de Friends With the glorious Summer sun and bright blue sky above what better way is there to begin a Thursday morning than to ride with like-minded people. As our name suggests we place as much emphasis on the social side as on cycling. Our rides are a perfect way to get back on a bike after time off from cycling. We offer the opportunity to make new friends and the chance to increase your cycling, whilst riding along with a great bunch of people. The rides which are led by trained bike leaders normally last for 2 ½ hours and are ridden at a leisurely pace. No one is left behind and the routes are all planned to avoid busy roads or built up areas as much as is possible and concentrate on the variety of routes Sefton has to offer. After the ride it s all back to Waterloo Community Centre with the option of staying for lunch at the Community Kitchen, which gives a further chance to chat and socialise over a fabulous well deserved meal. This Summer we will be introducing occasional Monday Full-day Rides (you ll need to bring a packed lunch for these) and occasional Tuesday Evening Cycle to Supper Rides. No bike? No problem! We have a limited number of bikes and helmets available. So why not come and join us. We look forward to meeting you. Thursday Sessions 10.00am 12.00pm > Waterloo Community Centre Old School Buildings, Great Georges Rd, Waterloo L22 1RD For more information about the rides, sessions or bike and helmet availability, contact: Bill Cowley billcowley@blueyonder.co.uk Tel: The Chain Gang Rides for the over 50 s With the sun on your back and the birds in full song why not join the Gang and head out into the countryside and discover good company and great scenery on board your bike. This is a great group to join if you re looking to make the step up from your 12 mile ride to the next level. Racking up a distance of about 20 miles ridden at a gentle steady pace, you ll be amazed how easy but rewarding it can be to increase your mileage. The ride always incorporates a lunch stop around half way, so there s a chance to refuel before returning to Southport for about 2pm. With a wealth of ride leaders and experienced cyclists in the group any new participants will be in good hands, assisting with route direction and any mechanical issues that may arise. Don t worry about expensive cycling kit, come along in appropriate, comfortable clothing and a serviceable bike and you ll be pleasantly surprised what you can achieve. On 1st & 3rd Thursday each month throughout the year. > Dunes Splash World Esplanade, S port PR8 1RX at 10.00am Jul: 5th 19th Aug: 2nd 16th Sep: 6th 20th For more information contact: Dawn at Southport Age Concern on Or visit the Age Concern office at 8 Hoghton Street, S port PR9 0TF 26 27

15 Tyred Rides Being part of Alchemy Youth programme, Tyred Rides takes busted bikes and turns them in to brilliant bikes. Working with young people to service and repair the bikes, they provide skills training and increase knowledge to participants in a hands on fashion, the sessions are every Wednesday evening 5.00pm 7.00pm for young people aged So if you ve got an interest in riding bikes, how they work and how to fix them then Tyred Rides is perfect for you. All tools, parts, bikes and expertise is provided, they have a workshop and keen knowledgeable and friendly staff ready to pass on their skills to get you involved. Once the bikes are fixed they are ready for sale, recycling at its very best, turning once loved bikes back into the community at very affordable prices. So if you re looking for a new bike to ride to work or nip to the shops on, or your child has outgrown their current bike, head down and grab a fully serviced bike at knock down prices. The Alchemy Youth Club is on at the same time and at the same venue, so if you have a friend who isn t interested in bikes, there ll be plenty for them to get involved in too. For more information, please call Paul on Or go along any Wednesday, 5.00pm 7.00pm, Alchemy Hall (rear of the Parenting 2000, Mornington Rd, S port). Ditch your Stabilisers We have four sessions of these extremely popular activities available during this spring quarter; proving to be the ideal way for families to get their children riding and with a fantastic success rate, these hands on sessions for families offer the perfect opportunity to give your children a head start with their cycling. With support, advice and guidance from our enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff, we provide you with the tools to get your children riding independently without stabilisers and achieve that real land mark moment in their lives that they ll remember for years to come. Summer sessions from 9.00am 12.00pm: > Tuesday 31st July Litherland Sports Park Boundary Lane, Litherland L21 7LA > Thursday 2nd August Shoreside Primary School Westminster Drive, Ainsdale PR8 2QZ > Tuesday 28th August Litherland Sports Park Boundary Lane, Litherland L21 7LA > Thursday 30th August Shoreside Primary School Westminster Drive, Ainsdale PR8 2QZ BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL To book, tel: Don t forget! We ve partnered up with Sefton Children s University, so by attending one of our sessions your child can gain a stamp for their passport. Remember to bring passports on the day! 28 29

16 Dr Bike Free Bicycle Maintenance With the continuation of our Bike Works initiative, as part of the Department for Transport Cycling and Walking to Work Fund, supporting people into employment and training with journey planning and bike maintenance. The community Dr. Bikes are ideally placed to get your bike back in great condition and on track to be a viable and cost effective form of transport. Operating out of community venues across South Sefton the bike doctor can breathe new life into your old steed. So, if your bike has seen plenty of use over the Spring months, or been moth-balled since last Winter then it could be the perfect time to give it a health check to make sure it s gears are running smoothly and brakes are working effectively. No booking is required; however the sessions can be popular at some venues and quite busy, so a short wait may be necessary. These sessions are mainly aimed at adult bicycles, so priority will be given to these bikes. Work generally undertaken includes: > Replacing inner tubes > Replacing gear and brake cables > Replacing brake blocks > Adjusting brakes > Tuning/servicing gears As this is a mobile service, we may not be able to fix all repairs, if this is the case we will provide you with advice on where to take your bike for the work to be completed. All sessions are 10.00am 1.00pm > Tuesday 14th August Waterloo Community Centre Old School Building, Great Georges Road, Waterloo L22 1RD > Wednesday 15th August Litherland Youth and Community Centre 41 Sefton Rd, Litherland L21 9HD Weather Permitting > Friday 17th August Venus Centre 215 Linacre Lane, Bootle L20 6AD Weather Permitting Wheels for All Wheels for All is a nationally recognised programme that enables children and adults with disabilities and differing needs to engage in a quality cycling activity. Litherland Sports Park is equipped with a range of specially adapted cycles and welcomes individuals, groups and families to be involved, subject to appropriate training. There are two organised sessions operating at: > Litherland Sports Park Boundary Lane, Litherland L21 7LA Tuesdays: 12.00pm 3.00pm Wednesdays: 10.00am 3.00pm GROUP SESSION BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL, call: Cycling Projects on > Wednesday 22nd August L30 Community Centre Stonyfield, Netherton L30 0QS > Friday 24th August Brunswick Youth and Community Centre Marsh Lane, Bootle L20 4JQ 30 31

17 Autumn Newsletter out Sept 2018 For great walks and rides throughout Sefton and beyond, pick up Sefton s Walking and Cycling Newsletter from your GP surgery, Library and Leisure Centre and other community venues, alternatively download a copy at activetravelsefton.co.uk For help planning your journey: Or use the Merseytravel website to plan your journey for bus timetables/routes and train timetables. Download the Merseytravel App to your smart phone. Or contact Traveline on COMING SOON! Our new look Independent Walk Routes pack will be available in print from all the usual places very soon. You will also be able to download it from activetravelsefton.co.uk This newsletter has been developed by Sefton Council. The newsletter details the different activities organised and promoted by the Walking & Cycling Team throughout the Summer including how to get involved. For general enquiries call Sefton Plus on Calls cost 2p per minute plus your telephone company s access charge. For Walking enquiries: stephanie.boote@sefton.gov.uk Further information is available at: activetravelsefton.co.uk visitseftonandwestlancs.co.uk Design. Web. Designed by Advertising.