Text and pictures contributed by Anneliese.
Taking part in the Wednesday walks has always been a distant retirement dream and goal; however, unexpected unemployment suddenly sees me free. Therefore, Newbie and I went off to Henley to find out for ourselves why these walks are so popular, now often being the most well-attended walks of the week.
Us weekend walkers often see and hear names of IOG members we have never met, only to be told that they are regular ‘Wednesday walkers’. This became very apparent when I arrived to find that I didn’t recognise many people at all. A warm welcome was, of course, offered and it was strange to be introduced by Peter to the group as a new participant. Peter had generously stepped up, map in hand, as walk leader because Alan wasn’t well. Thankfully, Isabel had brought Bess, Alan’s dog, as I had heard one of the perks of a Wednesday walk was a Bess cuddle. She lived up to her reputation as a sweet happy girl, loving the attention.
The walk was a lovely 5-mile circular meander from Henley, passing Ian’s house so we could say hello, then out across the fields towards Witnesham, through fields, farms and wooded areas. The blossom and spring flowers were beautiful in the sunshine. We walked through fields with goats, horses, sheep and chickens, and all six of the dogs with us behaved fabulously.
Afterwards, the majority of the group went to nearby Laurel Farm Garden Centre for coffee and/or lunch, just proving what a sociable and friendly group this is. I thoroughly recommend anyone with availability on a Wednesday to join them for a relaxed few miles of exercise and chat.