Minehead Multiday (8th-11th May)

Members Present: K Maguire, H Maguire, B Mulrennan, N Graham, M Barratt, H Jones, R Jones, B Kennedy, D Peters, P Bridges, N Bridges, P Cotterill, M Simmonds, D McDonnell, R Wilcock, J Hickling, D Martin and 2 X non members A and B Evans (19) Day 1: Minehead Circular A few of the members departed from the Quayside near the harbour straight into a steep climb up alleyways and lanes to almost the summit of North Hill. There wasn't to be any of the normal scenic views due to poor visibility and also here, the weather deteriorated from low drizzly cloud to relentless heavy rain that we had to suffer all the way back into Minehead itself. At least we got to stretch our legs after travelling most of the day. A climb in total of some 700ft over the 3.5 distance. Day 2: Minehead to Watchet 7.5 miles. All 19 attendees met at the railway station to purchase their return heritage train tickets and then we set off along the coastal path, passing first the huge Butlins site, then the Dunster Golf course. Because of the tight time schedule, it was agreed that a couple of our slower group would only continue to Blue Anchor and so the group split and carried on at their own pace. A large chalet site was walked through, a shingle beach was walked over before arriving at Blue Anchor. A couple more decided not to carry on, electing instead to wait for the train that the main group were hoping to catch at Watchet. So, without further ado, the main group carried on. After the promenade, fields were crossed before heading to Watchet through densely wooded areas and finally emerging at what should have been an easy tarmac decent into Watchet. Unfortunately, due to cliff erosion, this was no longer passable. With the help of Paul we found a diversion path, but being ever mindful of our very tight timescale to catch a train to bishops Lydeyard, I was very fearful this wouldn't happen. To make matters worse, the steep descending path was almost impassable due to the sideways angle and the mud. Much worrying slips were also accompanied by much nervous laughter but now it was obvious not everyone would make the train. Those that did complete this Commando assault course quickly did indeed just manage to get the train whilst those left to flounder had to spend the next 2 hours in Watchet before getting the following train. The rest of the day was spent in again, heavy rain showers. Total climb 600ft. Day 3: Minehead Circular 6.5 miles. A more leisurely itinerary meant that members didn't start the walk till 1015 and we left Minehead via quiet roads to the narrow lane (Hopcott Hill) and then started the steep climb up into the forested hills. Layers of clothing were shed as members heated up and several stops were needed for a quick gulp of oxygen. Forestry tracks were crossed before we started the descent to Dunster via narrow pathways. An hour was taken in Dunster where members could chose a variety of things to do before most members carried on down a quiet lane and enjoyed a couple of hours in the Brittania, the oldest pub in Minehead. At the walks end near the Premier Inn, the walk finished at 6.5 miles and total climb of 900ft. To sum up, a great group of members and friends hopefully enjoyed the wonderful scenery this part of Somerset offers Karl Maguire.