GO: Fradley & Alrewas Pre-Xmas Walk

Fradley & Alrewas (Socially Distanced) Winter Walk

A delightful route in superlative South Staffs for our Pre-Xmas and Post-Lockdown 2-legged adventure. We will meet at Fradley Junction Car park by the visitor's centre on the south side of the Trent & Mersey Canal

In terms of Christmas, we don't propose Santa Hats/Clothes this year (which might lead gatecrashers and illwishers to believe we're partying) but please do bring a tipple/toast for the end of the walk. Go:Heart Of England also has other 6 person walks this day, to alleviate waitlists.

Meet: 10:00 for prompt 10:05 start.
Distance: Adjustable between 6 and 8 miles, likely 7.5 miles
Start Point: Fradley Junction Car park (by visitor's centre) Hay End Lane, DE13 7DW. The turning is a track as you drive over the canal bridge
Terrain: Towpath, Forest, Open Land, 2 pretty villages, no ascent.
Bring: Wear warm and waterproof clothing, according to the weather, proper footwear, and be prepared for off-road paths. Face mask for travel, and Hand sanitizer recommended
Refreshments: Bring a picnic lunch. No specific stops planned, unless regional pandemic tiering changes favorably on December 16th.
Toilets: Visitors Centre has facility but may not be open. Not available within the route, only trees.
Dogs: Well behaved dogs welcome, staying with their owner
Walk Leader: Paul W.
Emergency Contact: 0.7.8.1.3.7.3.7.6.2.3, though not available while driving or once walking.
Attendance: Regulations limit to 6 persons

RESPONSIBILITY: As with any outdoor activity, there is some inherent risk. Whilst we aim to avoid unnecessary risks, participants should take all reasonable precautions themselves. A suitable pace for the walk will be determined by the walk leader, which others must observe by keeping in visible distance, not forging too far ahead or lagging behind. Those attending are totally responsible for their own safety. You must be comfortable walking the specified distance in order to attend please.

SOCIAL DISTANCING ASPECTS: Keep 1+ metres from others. Also bring face mask and sanitizer for those moments we need them. We must avoid clustering together at the start and end of the event. We are also limiting to a group of 6. Members should be familiar with Group Policy (see messageboard policy pages) and with latest National Guidelines. Please only attend if you are free of symptoms of covid-19.

WAIT-LIST: We will strictly walk as a group of up to 6, but if a substantial wait list emerges, we will create a separate event page for you. You will need to sort out your own route (or do our route in reverse) and among you there must be a leader with navigating and group management.

GHOSTING: With places limited, members shouldn't be deprived by selfish behavior. Ghosting (rude no-shows, late withdrawals, uncommitted waitlisting) is not allowed, and will attract the usual penalty that reliable attendees will take priority over offenders at future events. SO DON'T PULL OUT IN THE LAST 24 HOURS.

WEATHER: In very unsuitable weather, we will defer the event. However please anticipate normal winter conditions, and only register if you are prepared for normal conditions such as lower temperatures or light rain/light snow/breeze. Note, the forecast is fine at the time of writing.