Walk leaders play a vital role in Leighton Buzzard Ramblers. Put simply without leaders there would be no walking group. We very much appreciate the time and effort that our walk leaders put into planning, recceing and leading walks.

We always welcome new leaders whether they are old hands or new to leading walks. For those who are unsure but would like to try leading a walk then why not use your favourite walk? You could extend it if necessary.

Our experienced walk leaders would be happy to help with planning or by co-leading or just be there on the day in case they are needed.

Guidance

Once confidence is gained you could try picking out a route on a map and marking it up. For those that want to expand their knowledge The Ramblers Association offer map and compass reading courses. Their Website is full of information, very useful for planning walks or just to spark ideas.

Planning the walk

Points to consider:

•    Location of walk – time spent travelling to start point of walk.

•    Terrain and length of walk. Is it dry or muddy underfoot?

•    Are there many stiles on the walk, the bigger the group the longer it will take.

     A general guideline would be to allow 2-2½ miles per hour including breaks

•    Recce the walk, preferably with another person and should it be a tricky route then a second recce

     may be necessary.

•    Suitable place for a brief stops for coffee/tea

Submit your walk details to the programme coordinator which should include:

•    Your name and contact number

•    Date of the walk

•    Meeting time & place (grid ref or postcode)

•    Car parking facilities

•    Distance of walk

A walk Leader’s checklist is available which covers all aspects of leading a walk copies of which are obtainable from a member of the committee.

Dogs are only allowed on a walk at the leaders discretion and an assessment should be made regarding farm and wild life on route. If a request is made to bring a dog then the owner must be made aware that it is their responsibility to keep the dog under control at all times.

Leading a walk is a commitment but in return you get great camaraderie so why not give it a try?