ON the cold, windy first Saturday of June, Kym, backed by Marlene, led the Steadies through the woods from the ancient dovecote at Manorbier to a point near the entrance of the castle.

It was quite slippery and all the paths were very overgrown. Having successfully completed the route without mishap, the walkers made for the Castlemead Hotel and the usual homemade cakes and coffee.

Brian, supported by Jane, led the compact Speedies group up past St James’ church and on to the Coast Path. This was even more challenging in places, but everyone made it safely onto the beach and back to the car park. From there they followed the Steadies route round to Castlemead - and cakes!

On Saturday 13, it seemed as if summer had arrived at last, as both groups enjoyed a sunny, warm walk across Tenby’s beaches. Kym, backed by Jane, led the Speedies through the South beach car park and on to Castle Beach, once around Castle Hill, then on for a lap of North Beach. Chris, supported by Annie, led the Steadies to Black Rock - where they turned left and headed back to the Harbour. Everyone made their way back through the busy town to a charity coffee morning at Church House, hosted by the Mothers’ Union.

‘Steadies’ walkers at Black Rock, Penally
‘Steadies’ walkers at Black Rock, Penally. Photo: Steps2Health (Steps2Health)

The following Saturday, on the 20th, after a miserable week’s weather, the walking group headed for Llys-y-Fran Reservoir, where it was a warm summer’s day.

The Steadies and Speedies did the usual two walks, but both groups followed the same route around the perimeter of the lake. Kym and Jane led the Speedies, while Barbara and Marlene followed behind with the Steadies. Everyone ended back at the Visitor Centre, where the café did a roaring trade.

For the final walk of June on the 27th the Long Course weekend was in full flow and it was bikes day. The club decided to hold two walks - one in Tenby and one in Kilgetty - with club members attending whichever walk they could get to. Nine walkers turned up in Tenby for a beach walk. It was a lovely day for walking and the beaches were quiet, as the Long Course action was all elsewhere. They finished at the harbour, which was also delightfully quiet for post-walk refreshments.

Steps2Health walkers, pictured at Kilgetty on June 27
Steps2Health walkers, pictured at Kilgetty on June 27 (Steps2Health)

A much bigger group of 16 turned up in Kilgetty. They headed down Station Road to Ivy Chimney Lane and returned via Sardis Bridge. They met a tractor rally, which blocked the lane for a while, until they had all gone by. They diverted via a short section of the Miner’s Walk then circled back via Oakfield Drive and Ryland’s Lane. Kym provided refreshments at her house with donations going to the Samaritans. This brought to an end their walks for June.

Steps2Health is an entry level walking club, walking for up to an hour, every Saturday, year round. Visit www.steps2health.org.uk or call 07967 056466 to find out more.