Weekend of walks to celebrate new access point to Wyre Forest

Walkers and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages are encouraged to get their walking boots on Saturday 15 September and Sunday 16 September 2012 for the launch of a new access point at Cleobury Mortimer Golf Course and upgraded routes to the Wyre Forest. 

To celebrate the launch, a whole series of walks have been organised for all abilities from the golf course.   

The event starts on Saturday morning (15 September 2012) where there will be a 7-mile linear walk from the Wyre Forest to the Golf Course.  The 7-mile linear walk costs just £10 and includes coach transport from the golf course to the Wyre Forest Visitor Centre and lunchtime barbeque.  This walk must be booked and paid prior to the event.  Walkers are advised to arrive at 9.30am at the golf course. 

There will also be a choice of free guided circular walks on Saturday and Sunday afternoon for walkers of all abilities.  The free walks start from the golf course on: 

• Saturday afternoon from 2pm: 3 or 5 miles
• Sunday morning from 10am: 2 or 5miles
• Sunday afternoon from 2pm: 4 and a half or 6 and a half miles. 

These walks are free and no need to book.  Just turn up on the day.  Dogs (on leads) and children accompanied by adults are very welcome.  All walkers must wear sensible walking footwear. 

Free leaflets are available, in particular for those wishing to walk independently. 

The event, organised by Susan Sharp from the Cleobury Mortimer Footpath Association and member of the Ramblers Association in conjunction with the golf club, is as a result of work undertaken by Shropshire Council’s outdoor recreation team. 

Funding for the a two-year project with the Wyre Forest, Shropshire Council and Shropshire Ramblers, came from the Grow with Wyre Project to help upgrade several public rights of way in the area.  The project involved substantial diversions and improvements to footpaths.  Work included installing new furniture on the amended routes, production of four new leaflets, and an interpretation panel showing the walks at the Golf Club. 

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for active and healthy lifestyles, said:

“Outdoor recreation plays an integral part in improving and promoting the health and well-being of our local communities.  It’s great to see the creation of a new access point and upgrade of walking routes in the Wyre Forest.  The work, carried out by our outdoor recreation team, has been a real partnership effort encouraging and promoting access to the Wyre Forest area whilst supporting local businesses and farmers.  I am sure this will help bring many health, cultural and economic benefits to local residents, businesses and visitors.”

On the Saturday there will be lunchtime barbeque, and for just £5 walkers can have a locally-made burger in a bap, a Wyre Forest meats pork or venison sausage, side salads and coleslaw.  A dessert will be available as an extra.  A vegetarian option is available.  Advanced booking is advisable . 

The Clubhouse bar will also be open all day serving meals, snacks, and hot and cold drinks

The Golf Course is to the East of Cleobury Mortimer (SO691765) and is signed from the A4117.

Parking is free.

To help walkers make the most of this facility, four walk leaflets are available from the Golf Course, which provide a selection of attractive and varied circular walks. 

These have been developed by Cleobury Mortimer Footpath Association –  a volunteer organisation who maintain the footpaths in around Cleobury Mortimer.  The walk details can also be downloaded free of charge from www.cmfa.co.uk.

For more information about the event and to book the 7-mile linear wall call 01299 271112 Option 3 (Mon to Thur 9-4 only) or email gcwalks@shropshireramblers.org.uk  or send booking with payment to Brookside, Eagle Lane, Cleobury Mortimer, Kidderminster DY14 8RA

This event is also part of the Cleobury Fringe taking place on three weekends in September.  For latest information about this weekend see www.shropshireramblers.org.uk

Further information

The course borders the western edge of the Wyre Forest.  Footpaths radiate in all directions allowing for a wide selection of walks.  You can even walk on public footpaths all the way to the main visitor centre.