In order to make it easier when compiling the programme we would be grateful if leaders could provide the following information for any walk that they are planning to lead. Paper copies of this form can be obtained from the Secretary if required.

Miles: = Kilometers

Please contact Mags Hobby, the Colchester Footpath Secretary, if you encounter any difficulties on the paths. Alternatively complete the online form.

We are always on the lookout for new leaders. If you would like to lead a walk, but don’t know how to plan a walk, then contact one of the committee who will be more that willing to assist you. For your first walk we can provide assistance an all aspects of walk planning and preparation, as well as giving you the option of co-leading a walk with an experienced leader.

Walks for the next programme need to be in by two months before the first walk. If you are planning on leading a walk forward details to Boyd French or Margaret Smith for Sunday walks, Linda Curtis or Kathy Pugh for mid-week walks. Check the diary for available dates. Walk details on the site will continuously be updated as they arrive, so book early to get your required date.

When planning your walks, check any walks already on the diary so as not to have too many in one area. If you find that a walk is already planned in the area you had in mind, save it for the next programme.

The highway code has some rules for walkers, whether in a group or as individuals.

For individuals, if there is no pavement or footpath, walk on the right-hand side of the road so that you can see oncoming traffic. You should take extra care and be prepared to walk in single file, especially on narrow roads or in poor light and keep close to the side of the road. It may be safer to cross the road well before a sharp right-hand bend (so that oncoming traffic has a better chance of seeing you). Cross back after the bend.

For groups, groups of people should use a path if available; if one is not, they should keep to the left. Look-outs should be positioned at the front and back of the group, and they should wear fluorescent clothes in daylight and reflective clothes in the dark. At night, the look-out in front should carry a white light and the one at the back a red light. People on the outside of large groups should also carry lights and wear reflective clothing.

The Group have a number of high visibility vests which can be loaned out to walk leaders. Contact John Watts if you would like to borrow a couple (one for the backmarker!). The QD store in Colchester has also been known to stock the vests in the past.