Sefton’s AutumnWalking & Cycling

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NewsletterSefton’s Autumn

Walking & CyclingNewsletter

Trailblazers

Southport Eco Centre

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This Newsletter is produced in partnership with Sefton Council and NHS Sefton

Welcome to the twenty-fifth edition ofSefton’s Walking and Cycling Newsletter

After a sensational summer of sport that has gripped the nation and has inspired many people

to get active, we are looking forward to an exciting Autumn programme of walking and cycling

activities to get you outdoors and engaged in physical activity. These activities include evening

torch walks throughout October, the return of the Coastal Challenge, Adult Cycle Training and

Community Cycle Rides.

We would also like to wish all our volunteers, walkers, cyclists and readers a very Merry Christmas

and a fantastic New Year.

Discover the heritage along our coastline with a series of walks. Walks will be led by coastal staff and volunteers and have been put together to combine the benefits of walking with discovering information along the route. These walks are part of the Sefton Coast Landscape partnership Scheme, which is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Tuesday 9th October Southport - Birkdale 2-2.5hr longMeet at Southport Station at 10:30am, the walk will finish at Birkdale Station

Thursday 11th October Formby - Hightown 2.5-3hr longMeet at Formby Station at 1:30pm, the walk will finish at Hightown Station

Saturday 20th October Ainsdale Loop 2-2.5hr long Meet at Ainsdale Station at 10:30am, the walk will finish back at Ainsdale Station

Tuesday 30th October Hightown - Crosby 2.5-3hr longMeet at Hightown Station at 10:30am, the walk will finish at the Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre

Thursday 8th November Hillside - Crossens 3hr longMeet at Hillside Station at 1:30pm, the walk will finish at the Plough Pub in Crossens where there are regular buses back to Southport

Tuesday 13th November Freshfield - Formby 2-2.5hr longMeet at Freshfield Station at 10:30am, the walk will finish back at Formby Station

Saturday 17th November Ainsdale - Birkdale 2-2.5hr long Meet at Ainsdale Station at 10:30am, the walk will finish at Birkdale Station

Thursday 22nd November Hillside - Freshfield 2-2.5hr longMeet at Hillside Station at 1:30pm, the walk will finish back at Freshfield Station

Saturday 1st December Southport - Birkdale 2-2.5hr long Meet at Southport Station at 10:30am, the walk will finish at Birkdale Station

Thursday 6th December Hillside - Ainsdale 2.5-3hr longMeet at Hillside Station at 1:30pm, the walk will finish at Ainsdale Station

Tuesday 11th December Freshfield - Ainsdale 2.5-3hr long Meet at Freshfield Station at 10:30am, the walk will finish at Ainsdale Station

Saturday 15th Decemeber Formby - Freshfield 2-2.5hr longMeet at Formby Station at 10:30am, the walk will finish back at Freshfield Station.

Sefton’s Heritage Coastline Walks

Please wear appropriate footwear for walking onwoodland paths, sand dunes and the beach.

For further information contact us on 0151 934 2964

Just turn up to the walk of your choice, they are open to all age groups and are free to join.

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Congratulations to all the walkers who completed the ‘Every Park Counts’ Challenge throughout the Summer, it certainly was our biggest challenge to date.

The final leg of the challenge was the one that pushed us the most, not only was it the longest at 14.9 miles but 5 miles in we found ourselves in an almighty thunderstorm. It started to rain as we were finishing our lunch pit-stop in Coronation Park and as we left Alexandra Park a flash of lightning lit up the sky followed by an loud rumble of thunder and the rain absolutely drenched us. The group took shelter in the subway by Blundellsands Station for a while and after a vote we decided to continue – we were all wet anyway.

Every Park Counts Challenge - 48 miles, 42 Sefton Parks in 4 days!

Within half an hour we had arrived on the coastal path leading towards Hightown and the sun had come out and it seemed to shine with all its might to help dry us off. As we continued towards Formby we were feeling the heat, from one extreme to the another. As we walked along the footpath between the railway and Altcar Rifle Range we had to put all our effort into puddle dodging as they covered most of the path and were quite deep in places. We are pleased to announce that the Coastal

Challenge is back by popular demand although it has been extended to 25 miles to celebrate the 25th issue of Sefton’s Walking and Cycling Newsletter.

As we approached Deansgate Lane, the group were aware we were about to enter the penultimate park before Duke Street Park and they were all quite happy about that.

All 4 days of the Challenge were enjoyable but the last leg will most definitely stick in the memory.

30th October Ainsdale to Crossens

Meet: 10:30am at Ainsdale Train Station.Finish at Crossens by the Plough Pub.

There are regular buses back to Southport.

Coastal Challenge - October/November 2012

20th NovemberAinsdale to Formby

Meet: 10:30am at Ainsdale Train Station.Finish at Formby Train Station.

6th NovemberFormby to Waterloo

Meet: 10:30am at Formby Train Station.Finish at Waterloo Train Station.

Leg 1 - 9 miles Leg 2 - 7 miles Leg 3 - 9 miles

Free Nordic walking groups

(Poles are provided if needed)

Some residents of Sefton are starting to realise the benefits of Nordic Walking after recently completing a Nordic Walking Technique Training Course. Active Walks Nordic are working with Nordic Walking UK to introduce more people to this fantastic fitness exercise which is taking the world by storm.

All the courses throughout the Summer were well attended and the interest is still high, therefore Active Walks Nordic are providing two more technique courses and also some taster sessions throughout the Autumn.

Technique CoursesCrosby - Crosby Leisure CentreCrosby Technique course, Mondays 1-2pm on 22nd and 29th October, 5th and 12th November.

Southport - Dunes/SplashworldDunes Technique course, Wednesdays 1-2pm on 24th and 31st October, 7th and 14th November.

For more information on the taster courses tel: 0151 934 2824.

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To participate in the Nordic Walks participants must have attended a nordic walking technique training course. The walks last approximately 1 hour and provide the perfect opportunity to practice the sports specific technique and work the upper body as well as leg muscles.

Formby - Monday afternoons1:00pm - 2:00pm Meet: Freshfield Train Station (Victoria Road)1st/8th/15th/22nd/29th October5th/12th/19th/26th/ November3rd/10th December Christmas Break

Freshfield - Tuesday evenings6:00pm - 7:00pmMeet: Freshfield Pub (corner of Gores Lane/Massams Lane)5 minute walk from Freshfield Train Station 2nd/9th/16th/23rd/30th October6th/13th/20th/27th November4th/11th/18th December Christmas Break

Southport - Wednesday afternoons2:00pm - 3:00pmMeet: Dunes/Splashworld, Southport10th/24th October7th/21st November5th/12th December Christmas Break

Crosby - Friday mornings10:30am - 11:30amMeet: Crosby Leisure Centre5th/12th/19th/26th October2nd/9th/16th/23rd/30th November7th December Christmas Break

Once again our volunteers were at the Southport Flower Show to promote all things walking and cycling in Sefton. A busy four days, many smoothies were made using pedal power alone on the adapted bicycle. A high number of walking boots and bicycles were coloured in by children of all ages and placed on the giant board within the marquee. And the tombola proved popular with many prizes being collected throughout all four days.

A big thank you to our volunteers as always.

Volunteering Time atSouthport Flower Show

FREE ‘Learn 2 Nordic’ Courses

NOTICE of Footpath ClosureFootpath Improvements Formby to Hightown

The footpath which runs alongside the Altcar Riffle range will be closed for up to 14 weeks from the 19th November 2012, to allow the footpath to be widened and improved and the bridge over the River Alt to be replaced. The path, formally known as Altar Footpath No 6 and Ince Blundell footpath No 1, will be closed between Hoggs Hill Lane (Altcar Footpath No 5) and the entrance to the Rifle Range.

BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW

Walking Diary Dogs are welcome on most of the walks but must remain on a shortlead for the entirety of the walk.

All the walks are free to join and no booking is required. Just turn up at the walk of your choice, meet our experienced walk leaders, enjoy the walk and the company. The walks are open to all age groups and there are walks that are suitable for users of wheelchairs and mobility vehicles. The walk programme includes weekend and evening walks as well as weekday walks. General Contact number: 0845 140 0845

2-4 mls

30 mins - 1 hourgentle pace1

2 2-5 mls Walk Leaders: Brian, Sheila, Chris and John

Meet: 10am at Maghull Health Centre (inside main entrance).

MondaysMaghull Walks

1 hour - 2 hoursmedium pace2 1 hour - 2.5 hours

medium/brisk pace3

The group uses a variety of rural routes to arrive at destinations in the Maghull, Sefton, Melling and Lydiate areas for refreshments. The walkers cross fields, use towpaths beside the canal and walk through community woodlands so suitable footwear suitable for countryside walking and seasonal clothing should be worn. Walking duration is approximately 2 hours.

Monday 1st October: HayloftMonday 15th October: Sefton Meadows

Monday 5th November: Bootle ArmsMonday 19th November: Hartleys

Monday 3rd December: HayloftMonday 10th December: Punch Bowl

2 Walk Leaders: Sue, John and Lynne

Meet: 10:30am at Crosby Library, Crosby Road North (inside main entrance).Crosby Walks

The walks are generally held on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month.(or Tuesday if a Bank Holiday week). They vary in length depending on location and last approximately 1 hour.

Monday 8th October: Waterloo Seafront GardensMonday 22nd October: Formby *(3 week gap)

Monday 12th November: Rimrose ValleyMonday 26th November: Marine Lake and Promenade

Monday 10th December: Coastguards to Hightown*(optional coffee or lunch at the Hightown Hotel)

Those marked with an * involve public transport so please bring travel passes or bus/train fare, and allow more time for travel.

1 1-3 mls Walk Leaders: Alasdair, Paul and Tony

Meet: 11:00am at the Sands Hotel(car park).Ainsdale Walks

This is a short walk lasting for a maximum of 1 hour. The group passes through the dunes and finishes with a chat and a coffee in the Sands pub afterwards. If you wish to join the group, please wear sensible footwear suitable for walking through the dunes.Monday 1st OctoberMonday 8th OctoberMonday 15th OctoberMonday 22nd OctoberMonday 29th October

Monday 5th NovemberMonday 12th NovemberMonday 19th NovemberMonday 26th November

Monday 3rd DecemberMonday 10th DecemberMonday 17th December

2 2-4 mls Walk Leader: Marie Meet: 10:00am at the Feelgood Factory, Glovers Lane, Netherton.Netherton Feelgood Factory

This is a short walk lasting 45 mins and an hour. The walking routes vary each week, taking in local parks and Leeds Liverpool canal. This is a relatively new walking group and are always looking for new members to come along and enjoy the walks with us.Monday 1st OctoberMonday 8th OctoberMonday 15th OctoberMonday 22nd OctoberMonday 29th October

Monday 5th NovemberMonday 12th NovemberMonday 19th NovemberMonday 26th November

Monday 3rd DecemberMonday 10th DecemberMonday 17th December

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2 2-4 mlsWalk Leaders: Margaret, Helen, Delia, Pat and Val

Meet: Park Lane/Watts Lane bus stop, Bailey Drive bus stop, Bootle Strand Train Station or Sir Thomas Street (Liverpool) depending on the location of the walk. (see details below).

TuesdaysBootle Walks

The group covers distances of between 2 and 4 miles each week depending on location and enjoy a variety of routes across Sefton and beyond. (Bootle walks are not suitable for dogs).Tuesday 2nd Oct: Hall Road to HightownMeet 10:00am Park/Watts Lane or 10:30am at Bootle Strand Train station (note later time)

Tuesday 9th Oct: Albert DockMeet: 9:30am Park/Watts Lane or 10:30am at Paradise Bus Station

Tuesday 16th Oct: Virgins LaneMeet: 9:30am Park/Watts Lane or Cooksons Bridge, Ford

Tuesday 23rd Oct: Croxteth ParkMeet: 9:30am Park/Watts lane or 10:00am Moss Lane Liverpool

Tuesday 30th Oct: Liverpool LocksMeet: 9:30am Park/Watts lane or 10:00am Hugh Baird College Stanley Road

Tuesday 6th Nov: Birkenhead ParkMeet: 9:30am Park/Watts Lane or 10:00am at Bootle Strand Train Station(Liverpool Line)

Tuesday 13th Nov: Sefton MeadowsMeet: 9:30am Park/Watts Lane or 10:00am at Marion Square Netherton

Tuesday 20th Nov: Port SunlightMeet: 9:30am Park/Watts Lane or 9:50am Bootle Strand Train station (Liverpool Line)

Tuesday 27th Nov: DobbiesMeet: 9:30am Park/Watts lane or 10:00am Bootle Stand Train station (Southport Line)

Tuesday 4th Dec: ChesterMeet 9:30am Park/Watts lane

Tuesday 11th Dec: Christmas Lunch

2 2-4 mls Walk Leaders: Kath, Anne, and Peter

Meet: 10:30am, in front of Pinewoods Pub on Wicks Green. (off Harrington Road).Formby Pinewoods

As all the walks use the pinewoods and coastal footpaths there will be sandy paths and gentle inclines throughout the routes.Tuesday 2nd OctoberTuesday 9th OctoberTuesday 16th OctoberTuesday 23rd OctoberTuesday 30th October

Tuesday 6th NovemberTuesday 13th NovemberTuesday 20th NovemberTuesday 27th November

Tuesday 4th DecemberTuesday 11th December

Christmas Lunch

2 2-3 mls Walk Leaders: Alex & Ged Meet: 10:30am, inside Sefton Carers Centre (on South Road).Waterloo Walks

A short walk of 45 minutes - 1 hour taken at a gentle pace. The group enjoys glorious views of the coast and beyond.

Tuesday 9th Oct: Formby LoopTuesday 23rd Oct: Southport

Tuesday 6th Nov: Ainsdale to FreshfieldTuesday 20th Nov: Sefton Park

Tuesday 4th Dec: Rimrose ValleyTuesday 18th Dec: Hightown

The Princess Royal Trust

for CarersNetwork Member

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Tuesday 2nd OctoberTuesday 16th OctoberTuesday 30th October

Tuesday 13th NovemberTuesday 27th November

Tuesday 11th December

Short walks of 45 minutes in and around Hesketh Park, taking in views of the lake, wildlife and gardens.

1 1-2 mls Walk Leader: Stuart Meet: 1:30pm at Hesketh Park (corner of Albert Road/Park Road entrance)Hesketh Park Walks

Walk Leaders: Margaret and Gill

All walks start 10:30am unless stated otherwise.The walk leaders will be waiting at the station on the Liverpool bound side.

WednesdaysSefton Trailblazers 5-7 mls3

There is a great choice of walks across Sefton. The Sefton Trailblazers Walking Group enjoys a varied program of walks over different terrains using coastal paths, country footpaths, canal towpaths and through sand dunes. The walks are usually between 1.5 and 2.5 hours and walked at a brisk pace.Wednesday 3rd Oct: Town Lane Community Wood including a refreshment break at Dobbies Garden CentreMeet: 10:40am Birkdale Train Station

Wednesday 10th Oct: *Hightown to Formby via the Sefton Coastal Path Meet: 10:30am Hightown Train Station. Finish at Formby Station

Wednesday 17th Oct: *Canal Towpath and Cheshire Lines PathMeet: 10:50am Maghull Train Station

Wednesday 24th Oct: *Beach and Coastal Paths Meet: 10:30am Formby Train Station

Wednesday 31st Oct: *Waterloo to Maghull via Rimrose Valley Country Park and Jubliee WoodsMeet: 10:30am Waterloo Train Station. Finish at Maghull Station

Wednesday 7th Nov: Little Crosby and Thornton Meet: 10:30am Hall Road Train Station

Wednesday 14th Nov: Southport to Crossens via Marine Lake and Marshside Nature Reserve Meet: 10:40am Southport Train Station. Return to Southport via bus

Wednesday 21st Nov: Freshfield Dune Heath and Formby Moss Meet: 10:30am Freshfield Train Station

Wednesday 28th Nov: Birkdale Hills and Sand Dunes Meet: 10:30am Hillside Train Station

Wednesday 5th Dec: Canal Towpath circular via WaddicarMeet: 10:45am Old Roan Train Station

Wednesday 12th Dec: Seaforth to Crosby via Rimrose Valley Country Park and the Sefton Coastal PathMeet: 10:30am Seaforth and Litherland Train Station. Finish at Blundellsands and Crosby Train Station

Wednesday 19th Dec: Christmas Walk and Meal at The Arion HotelMeet: 10:30am Ainsdale Train Station Please ask the walk leaders nearer the time for details of the Christmas menu.

Dates in black start and finish at the same train station. Dates in blue, the walk ends at a different train station.

*Denotes there will be an opportunity at the end of the walk to stop at a pub or cafe for refreshments.

Trailblazers

Southport Eco Centre

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Walk Leaders: Alex, Ged and John Contact Number: 0786 659 7719

Meet: Seaforth and Litherland Station. All walks start at 10:00am. unless otherwise stated. Minibus places to be booked in advance.

Litherland Sports Park Walking Club

Wednesday 3rd Oct: Haskayne Loop. PLWednesday 10th Oct: Tarleton to Bank. Hall M/PLWednesday 17th Oct: New Brighton to Meols. PLWednesday 24th Oct: Brunswick to Sefton. Park PLWednesday 31st Oct: Ainsdale to Formby. PL

3 5-7 mls

Wednesday 7th Nov: Hadlow the lost village. M/PLWednesday 14th Nov: Mockbeggar Trail. PLWednesday 21st Nov: Seaforth to Hightown. PLWednesday 28th Nov: Dibbinsdale to Raby Mere. PL

Wednesday 5th Dec: Rainford toTown Green. PL (9:45am start)Wednesday 12th Dec: Parkgate. M/PL

M – minibus PL – packed lunch

Key PL Packed LunchM Minibus

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2 2-3 mls Walk Leaders: Lin, Anita and Sheila

All the walks start at 10:00am unless otherwise stated on the programme.Netherton Walks

All the walks last for approximately 1 hour. There is a great choice of walks to participate in so grab your walking essentials and get outside this Autumn.

Wednesday 3rd October: Southport PromMeet: Seaforth Train Station2-3 mile walk along the Prom

Wednesday 10th October: Sefton MeadowsMeet: N.A.C. (Netherton Activity Centre)2-3 mile walk to Sefton Meadows

Wednesday 17th October: Albert DockMeet: Seaforth Train Station3-4 mile walk along the waterfront (pub lunch)

Wednesday 24th October: Crosby MarinaMeet: Seaforth Train Station2-3 mile walk around the marina

Wednesday 31st October: Sefton ParkMeet: Seaforth Train Station2-3 mile walk in Sefton Park (packed lunch)

Wednesday 7th November: Hightown DunesMeet: Seaforth Train Station(LATE START) 10:30am

Wednesday 14th November: ChesterMeet: Seaforth Train StationLONG DAY - shopping trip

Wednesday 21st November: Netherton PubMeet: N.A.C. (Netherton Activity Centre) (LATE START) 11:00am2-3 mile walk to Netheron Pub (pub lunch)

Wednesday 28th November: Sefton MeadowsMeet: N.A.C. (Netherton Activity Centre2-3 mile walk to Sefton Meadows)

Wednesday 5th December: Clouds, SouthportCHRISTMAS LUNCHMeet: Seaforth Train Station(LATE START) 11:15am2-3 mile walk

Wednesdays

1 1-3 mls Walk Leaders: Debbie and Joanne

Meet: 10:00am at May Logan Healthy Living Centre.

ThursdaysMay Logan Health WalksThis walking group enjoys short walks in and around the Bootle and Litherland area, taking in routes along the canal and local parks, These are gentle walks lasting approximately 1 hour.

Thursday 4th Oct: Potters BarnThursday 11th Oct: 3 Park Canal LoopThursday 18th Oct: Rimrose ValleyThursday 25th Oct: Derby Park

Thursday 1st Nov: Potters BarnThursday 8th Nov: Hatton HillThursday 15th Nov: Little Merton HikeThursday 22nd Nov: Rimrose ValleyThursday 29th Nov: 3 Park Canal Loop

Thursday 6th Dec: Derby ParkThursday 13th Dec: Little Merton Hike

2 2-4 mls Walk Leaders: Margaret and Pauline

Meet: 10:30am at Ainsdale Sands Hotel.Ainsdale Sands Walks

This walking group enjoy walks around the Ainsdale coast, lasting approximately 1 - 1.5 hours. These walks offer extensive views of the sea and Sefton coastline and finish with a coffee in the Sands Pub.

Thursday 11th OctThursday 25th Oct

If you wish to join the group please

wear sensible footwear suitable

for walking through the

dunes.

Thursday 8th NovThursday 22nd Nov

Thursday 6th Dec

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Walk Leaders: Chris, Martin and George

Meet: all the walks start at 10:30am at Formby Pool (main reception area)Formby Pool Walks

Thursday 4th Oct: Lifeboat Road

Thursday 11th Oct: Freshfield Dune Heath

Thursday 18th Oct : Hall Road to Formby(Meet at Formby Railway Station 10:30amfor 10:43am train to Hall Road)

Thursday 25th Oct: Shorrocks Hill

3 4-6 mls

All walks vary in length and last 1.5 – 2 hours, the walks are longer than others on the programme and are undertaken at a brisker pace. There are routes to suit everybody and include Cabin Hill Nature Reserve, Formby Squirrel Reserve and Freshfield Dune Heath.

Thursday 1st Nov: Popular TrailThursday 8th Nov: Squirrel ReserveThursday 15th Nov: Dobsons Path

Thursday 22nd Nov: Waterloo to HightownMeet Formby Railway Station at 10:30am for 10:43am train)

Thursday 29th Nov: Larkhill Woods

Thursday 6th Dec: Cabin Hill

Thursday 13th Dec: Cornerstones

Thursdays

Walk Leaders: Pat and Arthur Meet: 1:30pm at Churchtown Library(on the corner of Mill Lane/ Roe Lane).Churchtown Walks

Thursday 11th OctoberThursday 25th October

Thursday 8th NovemberThursday 22nd November

Thursday 6th December

1 2-3 mls

There is a variety of interesting routes through the historic Churchtown and the walks last 1 - 1.5 hours

Walk Leaders: Stephanie and Stuart All evening walks start at 6:00pm - meeting points vary.Evening Walks

Thursday 4th October: Ainsdale Amble in the DarkMeet: 6:00pm, Ainsdale Train StationThursday 11th October: Hightown Tip-toe WanderMeet: 6:00pm, Hightown Train StationThursday 18th October: Freshfield Footsteps in DarknessMeet: 6:00pm, Freshfield Train StationThursday 25th October: Crosby Prom Night-time ShuffleMeet: 6:00pm, Hall Road Train Station

2 4-6 mls

There are four evening walks to enjoy before the winter break. The walks start at the earlier time of 6:00pm and will last approximately 1.5 hours therefore the group will be walking in the dark for the majority of the walk. All walkers are encouraged to bring their own torches but the walk leaders will also provide torches if needed. Although the routes are generally flat and easy appropriate footwear should be worn.

2 2-4 mls Walk Leaders: Jean and Trefor Meet: 1:30pm at Dunes Splash World.(outside main entrance).

FridaysDunes WalksStarting from Dunes Splash World, the group walk along the coast and enjoy stunning views of the Sefton coastline. Walks last approximately 1 - 1.5 hours.

Friday 12th OctoberFriday 26th October

These walkers have been walking as a group for more than 6 years and with a great choice of walks available, the group enjoy the seafront, Marine Lake, Victoria Park and the Velvet Trail.

Friday 9th NovemberFriday 23rd November

Friday 7th December

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Walk Leaders: Tony and Betty Meet: 10:30am at Dunes Splash World.1 1-2 mls

These are gentle paced walks of approximately 30-45 minutes, taking in routes such as Victoria Park, Jubilee Nature Trail and Marine Lake.Friday 5th OctoberFriday 12th OctoberFriday 19th OctoberFriday 26th October

Southport Central Walks

Friday 2nd NovemberFriday 9th NovemberFriday 16th NovemberFriday 23rd NovemberFriday 30th November

Friday 7th DecemberFriday 14th December

Walk Leaders: Maureen, Margaret, Steph, Stuart, Liz and Jonathan

The perfect way to get outdoors and spend some time with the family on a Sunday afternoon, the walks take you through some of Seftons’ fantastic scenery with routes including Formby Squirrel Reserve, Ainsdale Woods and the Alt Mouth at Hightown.

Walks last no longer than 2 hours and are planned out for you so just turn up and follow the leader.

Sunday 7th Oct: Melling MeanderMeet: 2:00pm at Maghull Train Station

Sunday 14th October: Rimrose Valley & Crosby MarinaMeet: 2:00pm at Crosby Library

Sunday 21st October: Fisherman’s Path TrailMeet: 2:00pm Freshfield Train Station

Sunday 28th October: Ince Woods WanderMeet: Lady Green Nurseries

Sunday 4th November: Ainsdale Woodland AmbleMeet: 2:00pm Ainsdale Train Station

Sunday 11th November: Blundellsands & Crosby LoopMeet: 2:00pm Blundellsands Train Station

Sunday 18th November: Lydiate FieldsMeet: 2:00pm Southport Road/Hall Lane, Lydiate (opposite Hayloft Tea Rooms)

Sunday 25th November: Freshfield Dune HeathMeet: 2:00pm Freshfield Train Station

Sunday 2nd December: Formby Winter WalkMeet: 2:00pm Formby Train Station

Sunday 9th December: Old Roan RambleMeet: 2:00pm Old Roan Train Station

Sunday 16th December: Hightown Coastal TrailMeet: 2:00pm Hightown Train Station

SundaysWeekend Walks 2 4-6 mls

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Cycling NewsChildren from South Seftons’ primary schools celebrated their own Olympic day at Litherland Sports Park by taking part in numerous sports. The Sefton Cycling Academy where there and provided mountain bikes and hand cycles for the children to compete in organised races. Who knows we could see the next Sir Chris Hoy or Vicky Pendleton coming through the ranks.

Bootle Games

Youngsters in the Formby and Litherland areas have been actively ditching their stabilisers this summer. Parents were given the opportunity to bring their children to the cycle skill sessions organised by Sefton Travel Awareness Team and supported by MeCycle. Staff were on hand to give advice and demonstrate some of the “Bike Buddy” bar adaptors along with a selection of scoot bikes.

Children where encouraged to take the stabilisers off their bikes and try the Bike Buddy bars on their own bike. The idea being that parents can hold the bike steady and follows on behind whilst the rider learns to improve their balance. They could also try scooting along on the scoot bikes which have no pedals thus the rider pushes themselves along whilst keeping their feet off the floor for as long as possible.

Ditch Your Stabilisers

Session Dates:Tuesday 23rd OctoberLitherland Sports Park1:30pm - 3:30pmThursday 25th OctoberFormby Pool1:30pm - 3:30pmFor more information please contactSefton Travel Awareness and Safety Team on 0151 934 4638

This summer has seen one of the best ever for our Olympic and Paralympic athletes. One athlete, Tour de France winner Bradley Wiggins lives in Chorley and over the next few months may be seen out and about

in the country lanes in and around Southport and West-Lancs.

If your feeling inspired this newsletter gives you information and details of cycling activities you can get involved in to get you out on your own bikes

whatever your ability. Information includes cycle training courses for children and adults, cycling for people with differing needs, school based

activities and community group rides.

Both parents and staff were pleased that most children who attended at least two of the sessions are now riding without stabilisers. With an 80% success rate sessions proved so popular that there are more sessions planned for the October half term.

Route details are available fromwww.visitseftonandwestlancs.co.ukor you can pick a copy up at any Cycle Hire Centre.

Cycle Hire Centres are at:Southport Train Station, Eco Centre Southport.

And our latest Centre at:CROSBY LAKESIDE ADVENTURE CENTRECrosby Coastal Park,off Cambridge Road,Waterloo L22 1RRTelephone 0151 966 6868Monday to Saturday:9:00am - 5:00pmSun: 10:00am - 5:00pm

Main hirer must be 18 or over.

Photo ID and proof of address will be required to hire the bike.Bikes can be taken free of charge on Merseyrail trains at any time.

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Wheels for All - Olympic Challenge

Cycling News

Members of the Dunningsbridge Centre who attend the regular Wednesday wheels for all cycling sessions at Litherland Sports Park have raised over £200 for Wheels for All in Sefton. They raised the money by completing as many laps of the cycle circuit in one hour.

The project is now picking up a pace and at the time of going to print a number of events are being prepared.

Working with the National Trust at Formby Point, a programme of family cycle rides have been organised. The inclement weather has so far interfered with these, however, a ride was held on the evening of 13th September and a number of people took part. Lets hope this is the start of something wonderful, riding through Formby Point, into the village and back. A talk on the growing and harvesting of the famous Formby Asparagus is included, together with some interesting facts about the village along the way.

The next ride is programmed for Saturday, 27th October at 10am, starting by the notice board at Formby Point. This programme will be continued next year so look out for the dates and come and join us.

The free classic bus from Burscough Bridge train station to a number of attractions in the West Lancashire area promised to be great day out on 15th September. Anyone using the bus was rewarded with a special offer at the attractions they visit, including reduced price entry and a free scone.

The project is supported the recent SUSTAIN Conference at the Convention Centre in Southport. A guided cycle ride from the venue was organised, using the popular hire bikes.

And don’t forget the photography competition. This is open until the end of September and entries will be most welcome. 12 winning entries will be made into a desk calendar for 2013 and each winning entry will receive a family ticket to a visitor attraction of their choice within the project area. Details of how to enter can be found on our website atwww.visitseftonandwestlancs.co.uk.

Come on, get snapping!!

Visit Project (Promoting sustainable tourism in Sefton and West Lancashire)

Cycling is a perfect way to explore Sefton and West Lancashire. The Sefton Coast is an area of sandy beaches, rolling dunes and pine woodlands. West Lancashire is also home to picturesque towns and beautiful countryside.

Themed Cycle Routes and Cycle Hire

Trailblazers

Southport Eco Centre

If your looking for ideas where to cycle, why not try one of our themed cycle routes. The VISIT project funded through the Department of Transport have produced a selection of family friendly routes which range from 3 miles up to 9.5 miles.

Wheels for All Litherland Sports Park sessionsAdults: Wednesdays 10am till 3:30pm Children 8yrs + : Wednesdays 3:30pm to 5pm,from 12th Sept to 17th Oct - 31st Oct to 12th Dec(subject to weather conditions )

For more information please contact:Sefton Travel Awareness and Safety Team on 0151 934 4638

Quote: Hazel Friar and Alison Jackson from the centre said “the group look forward to the sessions each week and enjoy trying all the bikes and getting out on the circuit. They have become quite competitive as well. Each week they do more and more laps which is great for both the staff and their own fitness. Its our way of saying thanks for all the work that Phyllis and the volunteers from Cycling Projects do to make the sessions enjoyable and safe.

A big thank you goes out to all who have supported and attended the sessions, especially the club coaches and volunteers.

2013 Sessions will start next April. For more information about Go-Ride sessions and the club please contact:

Paul Paterson (club secretary) 0151 259 6083 ormobile 07954 316151 on linewww.liverpoolmercury.co.uk

Go-Ride Games

During the Summer the Sefton Cycling academy Mercury (Dolan) Cycling club have been running Go-Ride sessions on Monday nights at their base at Litherland Sports Park. The sessions are very popular and provide cycling activities and coaching for 3year to 16year olds.

The activities include learning to ride, cycle skills and competitive race coaching. The club coaches and volunteers put a lot of energy and time into the session and their reward is to see participants developing into potential future cycling stars.

Parents and family members were in attendance at the last session of the summer series of the GO-Race Games. The games included races for all the age groups and some of the activities within a regular Go-Ride session.

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Trailblazers

Southport Eco Centre

Mary Kelland is a Sustrans Bike It Officer within Southport and Formby. She is currently working with schools to give the children the skills, confidence and information they need to cycle to school. Hundreds of children have taken part in fun activities such as Bike It Breakfasts, Maintenance lessons, Learn to Ride Sessions and Yr6 Transition work.

As part of a regional Bike It project two Children from Bishop David Sheppard CE Primary School won a Merseyside competition to design a Bike It banner. Watch out for the banners appearing outside of a school near you!

Sustrans Learn to Ride Sessions

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Cycling News

All the Year Six children from Norwood Primary School learned about road safety and safer cycling.

Children from Farnborough Road Infant School who took part in Learn to Ride sessions.

All the Year Six children from Larkfield Primary School cycled to Stanley High School.

Year Six children from Linaker Primary School practised their cycling skills at Town Lane Park, Southport.

Sustrans provides creative, innovative and practical solutions to the

transport challenges affecting us all.

By working with communities, local authorities and many other organisations, we create change by putting people at the heart of

activities, enabling many more people to travel in ways that benefit their

health and the environment.

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Cycling News

MeCycle is a social enterprise operated by Autism Initiatives. Donated bikes are refurbished and sold providing work placement and training opportunities for adults with autism.

MeCycle are looking for adventurous volunteers to cycle from London to Paris connecting two of the world’s most chic cities on one of the best cycling routes in Europe!

Cycling through beautiful English villages and into stunning rural France you’ll pass historical landmarks and famous battlefields from World War I until you reach Paris, undoubtedly one of the most magical places on earth. The sense of achievement you’ll experience will be one you’ll treasure forever.

Me! Cycle to Paris?

Age Concern Rides

Thurs 4th Oct Thurs 1st Nov Thurs 6th DecThurs 18th Oct Thurs 15th Nov Thurs 20th DecFor information about the rides please contact:Age Concern Southport telephone 01704 542993.

Our Community Bike Ride aims to inspire a love of cycling among our community and to create a wider interest and awareness of cycling and active transportation in our neighbourhood.

This ride provides a perfect opportunity to meet and greet new people, to exercise and to have a great time. At the half way point the riders stop to relax and have refreshments. One of the good points about the rides is that they are absolutely FREE! The ride starts at Splashworld Leisure Centre in Southport at 11:00am every Wednesday.

Community Rides

Wed 3rd Oct Wed 7th Nov Wed 5th DecWed 10th Oct Wed 14th Nov Wed 12th DecWed 17th Oct Wed 21st Nov Wed 19th DecWed 24th Oct Wed 28th NovWed 31st Oct

For information about the rides please contact: 0151 934 4638.

Following on the success of the summer training sessions BikeRight will be delivering free cycle training courses throughout the Autumn. If you are new to cycling or want to improve your confidence the courses provide the perfect opportunity to get the most out of cycling.

Level 1 courses are for those who want to learn how to ride.

Level 2 courses are for the more competent rider who wants to build their confidence.

During your cycle training you will:

< Have the choice between 3 levels from basic to advanced, as well as learn to ride sessions

< Discover how to deal with busy traffic< Learn about road positioning and how to be seen by other traffic< Find great cycling routes for your everyday journeys< Get tips for riding at night-time or in bad weather< Learn all about safety, clothing and other equipment< Pick-up maintenance tips< Gain knowledge from cycling professionals n Litherland Sports Park

Mondays: 22nd October, 29th October, 5th November, 12th November Level 1 (10:00am - 12:00pm) and Level 2 (1:00pm - 3:00pm)

n Dunes Splashworld Thursdays: 25th October, 1st November, 8th November, 15th November Level 1 (10:00am - 12:00pm) and Level 2 (1:00pm - 3:00pm)

To book a place on any of the courses please contact Bikeright:0151 482 5700 or online at www.bikeright.co.uk

For General information contact:Sefton Travel Awareness and Safety Team Tel: 0151 934 4638.

Adult Cycle Training

The challenge is being held on 17th April 2013.

For those of you in search of the challenge of a lifetime simply give Charlotte a call on 0131 551 7260 and we will send you a full information pack and everything you need to take part in this fantastic event.

Log on to www.autisminitiatives.org/news-events/cycle-to-paris for more details.

MeCycle also repair and service bikes as well as stocking a wide range of cycle accessories. To view or donate a bike please call 0151 928 9149 oremailus@mecycle.co.uk

They say that you never forget how to ride a bike - which is just as well. Ride Leader Irene said that: “Cycling is a great, low impact, exercise. It is helping older people with their fitness levels, giving a boost to both physical and mental health. The ride goes at a gentle pace and is suitable for everyone as the group can be split into two so we can still encourage new riders to come along”.

If you are 50+ then come along to Dunes Splash World Southport. The rides are every 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month and start at 10:00am.

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Level 1 is taught in a traffic-free environment, and children learn the basics of how to control their bike and make an off-road trip, for example on cycle paths.

Level 2 is covered on quiet roads but in real traffic conditions. Children achieving level 2 will be able to make a trip to school or elsewhere on small roads.

Level 3 incorporates busy roads, traffic lights, roundabouts and other advanced road features. Children will not usually be taught this until they start secondary school.

Bikeability Cycle Training

This newsletter has been developed through a joint partnership between Sefton Council and NHS Sefton.The newsletter details all the different activities organised and promoted by the Walking and Cycling Team throughout the Autumn, including how to get involved.

General Enquiries - Sefton Plus 0845 140 0845Stephanie.Boote@sefton.gov.uk 0151 934 2824Stuart.Cannell@sefton.gov.uk 0151 934 4231Brian.Nener@sefton.gov.uk 0151 934 4638Ross.Adams@sefton.gov.uk 07825 885243

Cycling News

Cycling Back to Health sessions are for people who have suffered ill health and may benefit their regime by including cycling as part of their exercise programme.

The sessions are based around building up your stamina, mobility and strength, plus providing a great workout for your lungs. The picture shows a group using the outdoor gym equipment in Hatton Hill Park.

The sessions take place every Tuesday at Litherland Sports Park from 10:00am till 12:00pm.

For more information please contact: Sefton Travel Awareness and Safety Team on 0151 934 4638.

Cycling Back to Health

Bikeability is cycling proficiency for the 21st century.

Bikeability is based upon the 3 levels of National Standards Cycle Training that were laid down by the government and several cycling organisations.

BikeRight! are one of the leading providers of this type of cycle training and have teamed up with Sefton Council to provide Level 1 and Level 2 courses over the October school half term break.

The Bikeability levels are:

October Half term sessions will be available at the following venues:

Litherland Sports Park: Level 1 and Level 2Monday 22nd & Wednesday 24th October,Times: 10:00 - 12:00pm and 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Dunes Splashworld Southport: Level 1 and Level 2Thursday 25th & Friday 26th OctoberTimes: 10:00 - 12:00pm and 1:00pm - 3:00pm

To book a place on any of the venues please contact:Sefton Travel Awareness and Safety Team on 0151 934 4638.

Cycle rides for the more adventurous

Every Tuesday 10:00am at Dunes Splashworld, Southport.We ride to Lydiate Village Hall for the Dover Cycling Fellowship meeting.50p gets you all the tea you can drink.

More information from Ian Bailey 07596 557553.

Cycling is very popular with young children, and as they grow up the time comes when a bike is no longer just a toy, but their very own mode of transport!

Trailblazers

Southport Eco Centre

Trailblazers

Southport Eco Centre