The Wistanstow Challenge Walk

Wistanstow Challenge Walk 2012 date

2012-01-23T13:13:00.001Z

The sixth edition of our walk will take place on:

Saturday 8th September, 2012

Along with the 2012 date, I'm happy to present the new look to our site. For those interested in such things, I hope to add a 'Statistics' page in the near future.

The 2012 entry form and event notes will appear in due course.

Happy New Year (and some fettling news)

2011-12-31T21:29:00.002Z

It’s the festive season and so almost by tradition, it means I’m going to give the site a little revamp. I do test any changes on a duplicate site before letting them loose here but there is just a chance you may visit whilst I’m in the process of updating things. My apologies if you find things aren’t quite what they should be – it should only be a brief interruption!

In the meantime, on behalf of the Wistanstow Challenge Walk, I hope that the new year ahead proves a happy and healthy one for all that visit here.

Wistanstow Challenge Walk 2011 - a happy band of walkers at the start
[An image made up of two of Al's photographs that I've 'stiched' together - John Clarke]

A reminder that a great selection of photographs of the event are to be found on Alastair Tye’s website: Fell Running Pictures (Wistanstow 2011 page)

Wistanstow Challenge Walk donations made

2011-11-25T22:02:00.001Z

Always nice after the hard work to pass money on.

£900 donation made to the Wistanstow Under 5s group
(Pic: South Shropshire Journal - Friday 14 October 2011)

A £300 donation was also made to the Firefighters Charity - thanks everyone.

Wistanstow Challenge Walk thanks

2011-09-23T16:46:00.003+01:00

You will find a small report at the bottom of the finishers list (see previous post) but we thought the thanks part should also appear on the front page - so here goes:

The organisers would like to thank:

Britpart Ltd., Craven Arms

Woods Brewery, Wistanstow

The Plough Inn, Wistanstow

Wenlock Water, Wolverton

Walls Butchers, Craven Arms

Spar Shop, Craven Arms

The Firefighters at Clun and Bishop’s Castle for their support and assistance, and the landowners along the route. And not least the volunteers who provide unstinting support; whether in the kitchen, out at the checkpoints, or in carrying out those jobs without which the event could not run – a huge thanks to you all.

Wistanstow 2011 Finishers List uploaded

2011-09-17T16:01:00.001+01:00

The Finishers List has now been uploaded to the cupboard under the stairs and is available for viewing.

2011 Finishers List (PDF)

2011 Finishers List (Word)

View from Blakeridge Wood looking back towards Acton and beyond

Wistanstow Walk Photographs

2011-09-12T18:03:00.004+01:00

We were delighted that Alastair Tye of Fell Running Pictures attended our event. Our time is always spent doing a million and one other things on the actual day.

Pop over to Fell Running Pictures to view an excellent selection from the day.

Wistanstow Finishers List being processed

2011-09-12T15:25:00.001+01:00

Wow - that was the fifth year of our little walk.

The usual massive thanks to all connected with the walk, whether entrants, helpers, or business supporters, you are what makes it all worthwhile.

Having dusted off the official 'Results Abacus', calculations are being made and just as soon we think they make sense, the Finishers List will appear.

[A brief apology for some of the technical gremlins that seem to have crept in of late - emails have also recently fallen into the gaping hole. A larger hammer is being sourced. Sorry folks, John.]

Wistanstow Walk 2011 Entries Full

2011-09-01T21:14:00.009+01:00

- Event Full -

Thank you to all those who have entered or shown interest in our walk; we are delighted to announce that the full entry of 150 has now been reached. We look forward to seeing you all on the 10th September.

To those not fortunate to gain entry or just contemplating such a walk, do feel free to come along and help out behind the scenes - volunteers are always welcome.

Celebrating Shropshire Hill Running

2011-08-31T23:04:00.004+01:00

A quick 'heads up' for an event taking place on the evening of our little walk; 10 Sept just in case it's slipped your memory!

Described as, 'A Social Celebration of 30+ years of Shropshire Hill Running'. (Pre-purchased tickets only.)

For more information: Social Celebration info - from the Mercia Fell Runners website

Wistanstow entries still available - just

2011-08-21T20:53:00.004+01:00

We still have some entries available but the walk is filling up fast. A brief reminder of the entry details:

Advance Cost:
LDWA Members: £9
Other Entrants: £11

All entries to:

Phil Clarke
Brook House
Felhampton
Church Stretton
Shropshire
SY6 6RJ

Printing Aggravation

2011-08-06T14:02:00.006+01:00

We're sorry that there is still a problem for some in trying to print the entry form - we've fiddled with no apparent success but we'll continue to try and find a solution. It's extremely annoying that we've done nothing different from previous years and yet...!

In the meantime, here's a link to the Events List page of the LDWA (Long Distance Walkers Association) website, where you'll find access to the 'Standard Entry Form' from the right-hand side menu.

It's available for everyone to use, you don't need to be a LDWA member, although membership has its benefits. Check out the informative website whilst you're there.

New Wistanstow Challenge Walk beneficiary

2011-08-05T19:38:00.012+01:00

As per an earlier post, (and the current South Shropshire Journal dated Aug 5th), to help celebrate our fifth anniversary, we are delighted to announce that the 2011 walk will see us contributing to the funds of the:

Wistanstow Under Fives Playgroup

Printing Problems?

2011-06-29T21:43:00.009+01:00

Printing the Entry Form now appears to be causing some people a problem? The sledge hammer will be applied and we will see if it can be fixed. In the meantime, sorry for any inconvenience.

A reminder for LDWA (Long Distance Walkers Association) members that the Standard Entry Form is accepted. If you live in the south Shropshire area, entry forms can often be found in various public locations such as; libraries, Tourist Information Centres etc. If local to Wistanstow, there is always The Smithy Shop*.

* Wistanstow Parish Council - The Smithy Shop Information

Wistanstow entries arriving

2011-06-16T22:51:00.004+01:00

Entries are now consistently landing on the mat at Entry HQ (Felhampton) but there is still plenty of room for more willing walkers.

In other news, congratulations (or commiserations) to all those who took part in the Housman Hundred.

Housman Hundred Wishes

2011-05-24T23:33:00.001+01:00

Just a quick message of good luck to all those taking part in the Housman Hundred this weekend.

Here we are again

2011-05-02T23:25:00.010+01:00

This year we celebrate five years of our walk. Previous years have seen all our efforts go towards providing funds for the Wistanstow Primary School and the Fire Fighters Charity. To help celebrate our 5th birthday, we thought that this year we would open the beneficiaries list to include another worthy cause from the parish of Wistanstow (tba).

With ever more pressures on small but locally important rural groups/charities, we hope to be able to spread some good cheer to another deserving cause.

Join us on 10th September and help us make it possible. The Rules and Entry Form are now available on the relevant page (see above).

News and updates will start appearing in May

2011-04-28T21:24:00.003+01:00

Housman Hundred – LDWA entries now open

2010-12-04T13:59:00.010Z

We mentioned the Housman Hundred (28-30 May 2011) in our post of 16th August and would just remind LDWA* members that entries (£50) are now open.

Entries for non-members will open on January 1st and will cost £65.

Visit the Housman Hundred website for entry details and other useful information.

'Finally reach summit (High Vinnalls) with derelict fire tower.'
(From the Housman Hundred Leg One route description.)

Entrants will hopefully experience a warmer day when they visit the fire tower. The views are great. This was a freezing cold November day with the sun struggling to break through. It never did, and despite the climb it was a hat and gloves sort of day.

*LDWA – Long Distance Walkers Association (furthering the interests of those who enjoy long distance walking.)

Wistanstow 2010 Memories

2010-09-19T10:00:00.018+01:00

Early morning registration

A busy hall before the start

Outside the hall waiting for the briefing

[Pic: Jane Clarke]

Sharron Richardson (First lady to finish)

receives her walk certificate from Phil Clarke
[Pic: Jane Clarke]

Heading towards SC4 (The 2009 day was warm!)

We'd be pleased to hear your walk stories or see any photographs taken during the day.

2010 Wistanstow Challenge Walk Finishers List

2010-09-16T19:25:00.002+01:00

2010 Finishers List (PDF)

2010 Finishers List (Word)

Andy Davies, first man home
(About to start the climb towards Blakeridge Wood)

A Roll of Honour for help and assistance

2010-09-16T13:04:00.008+01:00

Our happy band of volunteers, and the fire fighters at Clun and Bishop's Castle for their support and assistance.

Britpart Ltd., Craven Arms
Beyond Extreme, Church Stretton
Woods Brewery, Wistanstow
Wenlock Water, Wolverton
Newington Garage, Craven Arms
Walls Butchers, Craven Arms

The Finishers List will appear this evening.

A self clip point on the Wistanstow Challenge Walk

The Story of the Clock

2010-09-16T00:36:00.003+01:00

Whilst we know many of you aren’t too particular about the time, there are those that like to keep an eye on the clock, especially if they have done the event before.

We therefore aim to give everyone a time, to do with as they please. Unfortunately, this year we were defeated by the Village Hall clock. The final check point in the hall used this normally reliable clock, not realising that it was five minutes fast! Those interested can deduct five minutes from their times – sorry.

Each year there seems to be some anomaly that hasn’t occurred before, that we then have to factor into next years planning. This list grows ever longer but hard work though it is; we all derive great pleasure from seeing you complete your own challenges, whether it is completion, or reaching one of the check points.

PS. The Finishers List is nearing completion

Have you lost?

2010-09-13T23:58:00.001+01:00

Items missing their owners:

Map case
Walking pole
Drinks bottle

Email: wistanstowwalk@yahoo.co.uk

Congratulations and thanks

2010-09-12T10:02:00.004+01:00

Many thanks to all those who took part and to our small band of volunteers who made the day possible.

Expect news and a very short lost property list later. The Finishers List will appear once we have fully recovered!

Well done - see you all next year.

Weather Update

2010-09-11T06:35:00.004+01:00

The rain of Friday and overnight is due to clear during the early morning, leaving sunny spells with possible occasional showers, some heavy. Any showers should die out during the afternoon.

Afternoon temperature around 20C (68F).

(Forecast courtesy of BBC Weather)

Good luck to everyone, hope you have an enjoyable day

How about volunteering?

2010-09-10T11:43:00.007+01:00

Is injury preventing you from taking part? Or perhaps you feel you'd like to contribute a little of your time to help two worthwhile causes and have a glimpse from the other side of the event? The walk and money raised wouldn't be possible without generous people volunteering a few hours of their time.

Either make yourself known to those at Registration on Saturday morning (Wistanstow Village Hall 0715 - 0815), or contact Phil Clarke on 01694 781405 tonight (between 6pm & 8pm please) and I’m sure you can be found a small task to suit your availability.

(Pic: Shropshire Star: Wednesday, September 1st, 2010)

Route checked and entries pass 100

2010-09-05T23:58:00.003+01:00

The route has been walked recently and is in good order. It will be checked again later this week.

A reminder to entrants that we do provide a detailed route description and a colour outline map of the route. In the event of rain, a good map case may prove useful.

Entries now top 100 (Limit 150) – we look forward to seeing you all on Saturday.

26-mile challenge for charity

2010-08-28T07:58:00.004+01:00

The headline from the 'South Shropshire Journal' newspaper dated Friday, July 30

L-R: Firefighter Jason Norgrove, Tom Perkins, and Phil Clarke study the route
(Pic: South Shropshire Journal)

The photograph and story was so good, they included it twice in the same issue! The walk even got a smaller (non-photographic) mention under the headline, 'Walk date'.

Housman Hundred

2010-08-16T00:46:00.001+01:00

If our little walk isn’t long enough for you, then give some thought to exploring this part of the world on the LDWA* 100 mile walk for 2011 – The Housman Hundred (28-30 May).

Starting just outside Ludlow (Shropshire), the route explores the Welsh Marches area and is named after A. E. Housman (1859-1936); best known locally for a cycle of poems called, A Shropshire Lad (published 1896). His phrase; ‘blue remembered hills’, is often quoted when describing the South Shropshire hills.

For more details:

Housman Hundred Website

*LDWA – Long Distance Walkers Association (LDWA Website)

Wistanstow Challenge Walk entries arrive

2010-07-17T00:57:00.002+01:00

The postman is being kept reasonably busy delivering entries to the current Wistanstow Challenge Walk HQ (Phil’s house), for the 2010 event on Sat 11 Sept.

Early entry saves you money and ensures a quick turnaround at registration, allowing you more time to have a light breakfast, organise your gear (discover what you’ve forgot) and perhaps have a chat with your fellow entrants. It does of course make our life a bit easier having so many confirmed entries.

Despite three successful years behind us, it’s satisfying to know that people still want to enjoy a day out in the beautiful countryside and for some a challenge into the bargain. We thank you, as do our beneficiaries.

Rules and Entry Form

2010-05-11T22:05:00.003+01:00

Just to confirm that there is now a 'Rules & Entry Form' page (see above).

We've disappeared - apparently!

2010-04-03T13:47:00.008+01:00

For all those LDWA (Long Distance Walkers Association) members who have noticed that the event doesn’t appear in the latest edition of Strider (LDWA Magazine) – you have noticed, haven’t you?! Our details obviously went ‘walkabout’ somewhere between the organisation and the printers.

Not to worry, rest assured the Wistanstow Walk will take place for the fourth time on Saturday 11th September, 2010.

We would be delighted if you could help spread the word and enter the date in your diary and anyone else’s you happen to find.

Wistanstow Walk 2010

2010-01-29T01:07:00.003Z

Get your new diary and make a note:

Saturday 11th September, 2010

(Entry details will appear in due course)

Blog Developments

2010-01-10T23:58:00.001Z

As mentioned previously, developments are in progress with the blog and I hope you like the new look. There are still some improvements to make but hopefully the end result will mean quicker access to the information most frequently requested.

Seasons Greetings and changes expected

2009-12-21T20:36:00.011Z

Three years gone, can you believe it? This blog is a very simple device for trying to provide useful information about the Walk. The only cost is one of time. (Blogger is a free service provided by Google.)

It’s already served a very useful purpose but with limitations. Over the festive period the blog will hopefully undergo a few changes, dependant on varying degrees of head scratching and deciphering of hastily scribbled notes – I really should get out more!

Details of the fourth Wistanstow Walk will appear early in 2010.

In the meantime, the organizers hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and New Year

Wistanstow Walk press call & comments

2009-11-15T00:29:00.020Z

Presentation of cheque for £700 to Wistanstow Primary School
(Pic: ‘The Journal’, edition dated 23 October 2009)

The Organisers are grateful to everyone involved with the Walk for making it such a success and helping to support the two beneficiaries; Wistanstow Primary School and the Fire Fighters Charity.

The 26-mile (42km) walk (runners welcome) starts at Wistanstow and makes its way to Clun via; Edgton, Kempton and Clunton. From Clun, the walkers head north via Acton to Bishop’s Castle. The route then heads east passing through Eyton and Edgton on the return to Wistanstow. (Retirees are transported back to the start.)

The Walk provides a lovely tour of the beautiful south-west Shropshire countryside, but don’t just take our word for it; witness these written comments from the 2009 event (Saturday 12th September).

‘Great route, great organization, lovely helpers.’ AC

‘…thanks for a thoroughly enjoyable event.’ TE

‘Many thanks to all your helpers/family, for the kind encouragement and fantastic food at the finish.’ RW

And from Somerset comes possibly the best compliment we’ve had so far:

‘I have done 14 events this year and I have to say this was the best - in fact it would compete for the title of best ever.’ PC

Wistanstow Walk 2009

2009-09-24T20:05:00.008+01:00

Organiser Phil is left wondering,
was it something he said, or is he using the wrong deodorant?

SC5 ‘OvSt, FWM (aim top side of blown over tree)…'

Finishers List & Report

2009-09-20T09:12:00.008+01:00

The links below will display the Finishers List and a short report

Wistanstow Walk 2009 - Finishers List (PDF Doc)*

Wistanstow Walk 2009 - Finishers List (Word Doc)

*Please note: you will require Adobe Reader in order to access this document. This is FREE software that many new computers will already have installed. If not, you can download the software from:

Adobe

On the way to SC4

2009-09-19T20:19:00.008+01:00

On the way to SC4
'Through GT, continue with wood/hedge on your left, ...'

Wistanstow Walk 2009 Acknowledgements

2009-09-18T10:05:00.007+01:00

Colossus the computer has started to stir from its calculations and you can therefore expect the results to appear later today [Edit: Read SUNDAY Morning]. In due course, everyone will receive a copy in the post.

In the meantime, we offer our grateful thanks to the following for their support of the Wistanstow Walk 2009:

Beyond Extreme – (Outdoor equipment specialists) Website
2 Burway Road, Church Stretton, Shropshire SY6 6JA

Britpart – (The quality parts for Land Rovers – Wholesaler) Website
The Grove, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 8DA

Jewson – (Builders Merchants) Website
The Grove, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 8BY

The Wood Brewery Ltd – (Traditional cask-conditioned and bottled beers) Website
Wistanstow, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 8DG

Wenlock Spring Water Ltd – (Suppliers of spring water and associated items) Website
Wolverton, Church Stretton, Shropshire SY6 6RR

The Firefighters at Clun and Bishop’s Castle

And another shameless plug for our small band of volunteers, whose enthusiasm and support help make the event a great success.

On the web front, here are a few websites that help promote the walk and are very useful sources of information for similar events etc.

Shropshire Fell Runner

LDWA (Long Distance Walkers Association)

Long Mynd Hike (50 mile event taking place in the Shropshire Hills - 42nd running in 2009)

Mercia Fell Runners

Gear Reunited

2009-09-15T01:41:00.009+01:00

We do have a small collection of gear items that were either picked up on the route (thanks to those walkers) or left at the finish.

Contact Phil on 01694 781405 (evenings)
or email us with details: wistanstow walk @ yahoo.co.uk (remove the 3 spaces to get the correct address).

Fleece, hat, cap, and zipped leg!

Early morning promise (07:52)

Another great day

2009-09-14T07:42:00.002+01:00

Many thanks to all those who took part and to the small dedicated band of helpers who did a sterling job in order to make sure the day was a great success (once again).

News and results will follow.

It's Saturday!

2009-09-12T06:20:00.001+01:00

Good luck everyone - enjoy

Friday update

2009-09-11T09:10:00.000+01:00

Small route change(s)

A friendly warning to previous Wistanstow entrants, please keep an eye on the route directions or you may find yourself going the wrong way.

The new improved Wistanstow Walk route for 2009 provides a few less trees and more views of the lovely Shropshire countryside.

Weather Update

It looks like once again we’ve somehow managed to supply good weather.

Current forecast for Saturday is: SUNNY

Expect underfoot conditions to be: DRY

Wistanstow Village Hall - north-western side of the village
Landranger Map 137 Church Stretton & Ludlow

Wanted: Volunteers

2009-09-04T10:49:00.000+01:00

Is injury preventing you from taking part? Or perhaps you feel you'd like to contribute a little of your time to two worthwhile causes? The walk and money raised wouldn't be possible without generous people volunteering a few hours of their time.

If you think you can help with a few simple tasks, or just want more information; please contact:

Phil Clarke (01694) 781405 (Evenings)
Email: wistanstow walk @ yahoo.co.uk (remove the three spaces to obtain correct address)

The Clun Check Point courtesy of Clun Fire Station

Latest News - August

2009-08-22T08:42:00.000+01:00

It is getting ever closer and we are pleased to announce that the entries are rolling in. A big thank you to those who have pre-entered, as it does make our life a lot easier knowing the event is viable and that the voluntary work that goes on behind the scenes is not being wasted.

Having been recently checked, the route revealed that some crops are still standing but these will be gone by the 12th September.

If you wish to enjoy a light breakfast before the off, please ensure you arrive at registration in plenty of time.

You can also look forward to some free beer on your return, courtesy of Woods Brewery, Wistanstow.

See you soon.
The Organisers

Wistanstow Walk 2009 Rules and Entry Form

2009-02-17T07:58:00.000Z

3rd Wistanstow Walk - Saturday 12th September 2009

(Runners are welcome at this event)

The Rules and Entry Form are now available via the link below (PDF Document):

Rules and Entry Form

Please note: you will require Adobe Reader in order to access this document. This is FREE software that many new computers will already have installed. If not, you can download the software from:
Adobe Download page

Wistanstow Walk 2009

2009-01-06T06:58:00.000Z

To the sound of a trumpet fanfare, news that the Wistanstow Walk will return to the Village Hall for its base in 2009. Thanks again to the school for the use of their facilities last year.

Make a note in that diary you got for Christmas:

Saturday 12th September 2009

3rd Wistanstow Walk

[Edit: Feb 6th - A link to the Entry Form and Event Rules will appear soon]

Press Call

2008-12-10T08:21:00.000Z

Picture: 'The Journal', edition dated 28 November 2008

Wistanstow Walk 2008 - Donations

2008-11-26T19:31:00.000Z

As a result of all our efforts, (organisers, helpers, sponsors, and walkers), we’re delighted to announce that Wistanstow C of E Primary School has benefited to the tune of £500. A three-figure donation is also being made to the Fire Fighters Charity.

Results delivery

2008-09-24T07:52:00.000+01:00

The results should be arriving on door mats anytime soon, if indeed they haven't already.

'Head towards the light' - the climb into Oakeley Wood, home to fallen trees

Results and more thanks

2008-09-19T11:24:00.000+01:00

The results pipe mentioned in the previous post proved to be longer than expected and some technological issues also slowed things down. The results are now available for viewing in PDF format via the link below:

Wistanstow Walk 2008 Results

And in other news, a few more grateful thanks:

L. A. Price – (Signs) Tel: 01588 673362
Workshop Dale St. West, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 9NY

The Wood Brewery Ltd – (Traditional cask-conditioned and bottled beers) Website
Wistanstow, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 8DG

CP2 - Clun Fire Station and all is quiet

With many thanks

2008-09-16T19:05:00.000+01:00

From the path to SC4 - the view NE across the valley to Oakeley Mynd & SC5

On behalf of the organisers and the beneficiaries of the event, a big thank you to all the entrants who took part in the 2nd Wistanstow Walk. With underfoot conditions so testing, you all deserve a large pat on the back. Thanks also to the South Shropshire weather; we have waited a long time for such a day.

An event can not exist without its volunteers and once again a small team did us proud, on occasion in trying circumstances. You are all wonderful – it’s official.

Special thanks to the following for providing support and resources:

School Governors and the Headteacher (Mrs Reynolds) for the use of Wistanstow C of E Primary School

Pete and Julie Jones for the use of their field

Firefighters at Clun and Bishop’s Castle

County Tiles - (Purveyors of fine natural stone and ceramic tiles) Website

16 Corve Street, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 1DA

Jewson - (Builders Merchants) Website
The Grove, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 8BY

Britpart - (The quality parts for Land Rovers - Wholesaler) Website
The Grove, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 8DA

And the following websites:

Shropshire Fell Running
The Longmynd Hike
Mercia Fell Runners Club

Long Distance Walkers Association

Stopping for a photograph (rest) on the steady climb towards Blakeridge Wood.
Through the gap are the wood and fields that leads to Acton.

Meanwhile, the results are in the pipeline and should appear out of the other end shortly. Watch this space for details.

All photographs are copyright: John Clarke

The morning after

2008-09-14T08:27:00.000+01:00

A misty Sunday morning saw us out collecting the remaining tape and markers.

Approaching Horderley Wood - a nice straight line

'diagonal down field on grassy path to SC3'

All photographs copyright: John Clarke

2008 Rules and Entry Form

2008-01-21T15:30:00.000Z

Please click on the link below for a printable version of the Rules and Entry Form:

2008 Rules and Entry Form

The Event Centre for 2008 will be Wistanstow C of E Primary School.

(The Village Hall was unavailable for our walk this year.)

Debrief Form

2007-10-03T02:23:00.001+01:00

A quick note to thank all those who have returned the Debrief Forms.

The many encouraging comments have been passed on to all those involved and your suggestions have already been discussed with a view to a 2008 Wistanstow Walk.

Thanks again.

Wistanstow to Clun

2007-09-16T07:57:00.001+01:00

On the walk to Clun, ‘the quietest place under the sun’. Or so A.E. Housman thought in his poem, ‘A Shropshire Lad’. Perhaps not on Saturday 8 September 2007, with walkers a plenty and firemen washing vehicles.

The imposing black and white village hall - the gift in 1925 of local landowner Mrs Harriet Greene from the Grove Estate

The first track (looking south-west) heading towards the ruined Upper Barn

Looking west along Ridgway Hill. Plowden Woods to the right

Skirting Stoke Wood and looking south to Burrow Hill and its hidden hill fort

Heading down towards the village of Kempton

A woodland path on Clunton Hill

Heading towards Clunton and Sowdley Wood beyond

Approaching Clun from the south

All photographs copyright: John Clarke

Clun to Bishop's Castle

2007-09-16T07:57:00.000+01:00

And so to Bishop's Castle - home to one of the few remaining one-handed clocks in the country and the famous Michaelmas Fair.

Down the woodland path towards Brookbatch

A slither of sun on Sunny Hill

This view looking south-east is taken from the footpath that skirts Blakeridge Wood. The buildings just right of centre are at Acton through which you passed.

View looking east towards Brockton and Lybury North

The dark woodland in the far distance to the right, is Short Wood - you'll perhaps remember the walk through the bracken on the way to Kempton.

If you see this waymarker, you're following the Shropshire Way

All photographs copyright: John Clarke

Bishop's Castle to Wistanstow

2007-09-15T09:06:00.000+01:00

Now on the homeward stretch. A couple of woods and some great hill top views to enjoy - that's your reward for the climbing!

Leaving Bishop's Castle for Oakeley Wood

On Oakeley Mynd looking north-west towards Corndon & Roundton Hills

Still on Oakeley Mynd, north towards Linley Hall and Norbury

Dropping down towards a hidden Totterton

This view is east along the valley of the Onny. The dark expanse of Plowden Woods in the middle distance with Ridgway Hill just beyond.

The southern end of the Long Mynd from Ridgway Hill

Familiar to Long Mynd Hike walkers - the Ragleth and Caer Caradoc

Walkers sometimes need a hand - the wood above Glenburrell

The village of Wistanstow beckons

All photographs copyright: John Clarke

It's about £600!

2007-09-15T07:08:00.000+01:00

We are delighted to advise that around £600 is set to be divided between the two beneficiaries: Wistanstow C of E Primary School and the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund.

To all those involved – give yourselves a pat on the back.

The next few posts will contain photographs to remind you of the walk.

See you all in 2008!

In Appreciation

2007-09-12T07:53:00.000+01:00

You entered, you came, and you walked/ran.

Thanks to all those who participated and to the small dedicated team of volunteers who supported the event.

A number of local businesses also deserve our thanks:

County Tiles - website
Corve Street, Ludlow

Wenlock Spring Water - website
Wolverton, Church Stretton

Montgomeryshire Natural Spring Water Co - website
Crosslikey Supermarket, Churchstoke

The Wood Brewery Ltd - website
Wistanstow

Pugh's Butchers
Craven Centre, Craven Arms

A special mention to the following websites:

Shropshire Fell Running (where you'll find the results online)

Long Mynd Hike

2007-08-02T11:23:00.000+01:00

The walk follows a 26 mile (42km) route through some of South West Shropshire's finest scenery. (This event is also open to runners.)

The walk is in aid of:

Wistanstow C of E Primary School

Fire Services National Benevolent Fund

The Organisers are grateful for the support of:

County Tiles and Bathrooms
16 Corve Street, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 1DA

Telephone: 01584 879786
Website: County Tiles

Rules of the Event and a printable Entry Form can be found on the:

Shropshire Fell Running website

Brief details

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The walk starts at 09.00 from Wistanstow Village Hall and follows a clockwise route visiting the hills and valleys that surround Clun and Bishop's Castle.

Full support will be provided including food at two main checkpoints and a simple meal at the finish, plus transport to the finish for retirees. All finishers will receive a certificate.

Please note that runners are welcome to take part in this event.