Trailblazing Autumn 2022

TEAM UPDATE

It’s been a busy summer for the team with more events and organised walks out on the Coast Path. Our thanks go out to Raynor Winn and the Gig Spanner Big Band who made the Saltlines walk a memorable event (see page 10). It also was great to see members and volunteers out on the four AGM walks in June over in Minehead/Exmoor, Portland/Jurassic Coast, Mt. Edgcumbe/Rame Peninsular and Carbis Bay/St Ives.

The new Coast Path Passport trial sold out overnight after featuring on Alex Polizzi’s Hotel Inspector TV show in July (see page 28). We’re now looking forward to showcasing the Passport as part the 50th anniversary of the Association

next year. Plans for the celebrations are well underway, especially the 630-mile celebration walk starting in May and finishing in time for the AGM on 16th June. This will be a great opportunity for members to catch up with the team and our volunteer local and area representatives who are our eyes and ears on the ground.

Finally, we’re excited to announce that we have been successful in a bid to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for our new ‘Coast Path Connectors project’. The grant of £220,000 will be used over the next two years to introduce coastal walking to people who don’t normally get out on the Coast Path (see page 16).

The project will also build our capacity to manage new volunteers who will help people connect to nature along the Trail.

TRUSTEES

The South West Coast Path Association is a registered charity and volunteer-led organisation governed by our Trustees:

Chair: Bob Mark Treasurer: Hilary Dinsdale hon. Secretary: Martin Davis

The Trustees delegate responsibility for operational matters to the team led by our Director, Julian Gray. We work to ensure the Business Plan is delivered and our volunteers are supported in their endeavours to ensure the South West Coast Path remains one of the world’s great trails.

Issues directly concerning the South West Coast Path are co-ordinated through the Path Committee, comprising 12 Area Reps, three Trustees, National Trail Officer, SWCPA Director and chaired by Steve Church. The Area Reps work with over 50 Local Reps who together walk their section of the Path regularly, survey and report on the state of the National Trail and ensure our funds raised for path improvements are used where most needed. A map showing Area and Local Reps and their sections can be found on pages 38 and 39.

STAFF

General Enquiries: hello@southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Membership Engagement: Debbie Bakewell debbie@southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Head of Fundraising: Christie Burton christie@southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Finance Officer: Wayne Mackney wayne@southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Director: Julian Gray julian@southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Business Engagement: Sarah Gunn sarah@southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Impact Fundraiser: Will Keen will@southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Head of Comms: Aletha Mays aletha@southwestcoastpath.org.uk

National Trail Officer: Lorna Sherriff lorna@southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Coast Path Connectors Project Manager: Alex Turner alex@southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Cover photo: Wheal Prosper, West Cornwall. Photo by Matt Menhenett @edgeofthemapuk

Call us on: 01752 896237

Design by: Tom Barnard | Print by: Deltor Communications Ltd

Disclaimer: Opinionsexpressedbyauthorsandcontributorstothis magazinearenotspecificallyendorsedbytheAssociation.Although everycareistakentoavoidmistakes,theAssociationdoesnotaccept liabilityforclericalorprintingerrors.

South West Coast Path Association Residence 2, Unit 11, Royal William Yard, Plymouth, PL1 3RP

This magazine has been printed using ink made from vegetable oil as a substitute for petroleum. These inks significantly reduce the amount of toxic metals and Volatile Organic Compounds released into the air during printing.

The SWCPA Team - at a farewell picnic for our departing Operations Manager, Vickie Smith. From left: Sarah, Will, Aletha, Christie, Vickie, Julian, Wayne, Lorna, Debbie, Alex

Eve Bampton-Wilton Ken Carter

Lucy Daniel Graham Keene

David Morris Philip Spencer

The new footbridge at Tintagel Castle, Cornwall.

Photo by David Levene

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Trails UK

new charity

project update

Our 50th anniversary

New Ambassador Katherine May, author

Saltlines Community Day

Inspired by the Coast Celebrating the artists who are inspired by the coast

Discover some of the improvements (planned, completed and underway) along the Path

Coast Path Connectors Project

NLHF grant awarded for 2 year project

Director, Julian Gray, reports on the World Trails Conference in Skiathos, Greece

Member Offers

South West Water sponsor feature

How to conserve water –every drop helps!

Passport to the Path

See new places and get out on the Path with the new Coast Path Passport in hand!

EXPLORE

Agatha Christie’s Potent Plants

Torre Abbey garden pays homage to the Queen of Crime

Exploring the military history of Rame Head

Sculpture by the Sea

The Terence Coventry Sculpture Park

Parish to Parish Bounding along the West Dorset Coast Path

Penwith Landscape Partnership

Connecting ancient sites with new trails

Support for the Path from an international community

Coast Path Friendly Event

The Cousin Jack Classic

Step Up Appeal

Storm Damage Appeal Update

Volunteer Path Rep Map

Focus on Paul and Sandra Berry, local reps for Minehead – Bideford

Completer Stories

Read about some of the amazing stories from members who have recently completed the Path.

With Christmas almost upon us, shop and show your support for the Coast Path.

@southwestcoastpath

Use the hashtag #southwestcoastpath to join the conversation

CHAIR'S MESSAGE AUTUMN 2022

Inside the old thatched coastguard lookout at Gara Rock, near Prawle Point, which dates from circa 1840s.

Welcome to the Autumn edition of Trailblazing. As we mourn Her Majesty’s passing while recognising and celebrating a life well-lived in the public service, a new King, and new Duke of Cornwall, reflect the centuries of tradition which are part of the rich heritage of our nation. It is perhaps fitting that in this Trailblazing edition we have chosen the heritage of the Path and its landscape as a theme.

Amidst the delights of the Coast Path, in addition to its tranquillity and natural beauty, are the layers of culture and heritage around practically every corner. There are very few places where the walker will not spot something intriguing. The range is vast. Evidence of how people earned a living from the land and the sea, through to tell-tales of deeper historical struggles with iron-age promontory forts on both the south and north coasts, medieval castles, world-war gun emplacements, and abandoned coldwar bunkers.

I particularly enjoy coming across the rocky yet often surprisingly snug lanes, nestled between windswept hedges, with deep wheel ruts of carts, evidence of decades, centuries, of carting sand and seaweed up from the shore, to build cottages, manure the fields, and bring home the pilchards, which were a vital industry in our region for centuries.

Kipling’s Smuggler’s Song captures the romance of the ‘owlers’, smugglers, who probably used those same lanes.

‘If you wake at midnight, and hear a horse's feet, Don't go drawing back the blind, or looking in the street; Them that ask no questions isn't told a lie.

Watch the wall, my darling, while the Gentlemen go by!

Five and twenty ponies, Trotting through the dark — Brandy for the Parson, Baccy for the Clerk; Laces for a lady, letters for a spy, And watch the wall, my darling, While the Gentlemen go by!’

The Board of Trustees, Association Staff Team, and Path Volunteers have been working together to develop a new five-year business plan. I joined the Board at the onset of the previous 5-year plan. At the time, the Board set ambitious goals and it is pleasing to report that much has been achieved. During the period, the Association has raised over £2M for Path improvements, we have worked with our partners to sustain the Path despite the increasing frequency of storm damage and the

ever-present challenge of unsightly development.

I would like to take the opportunity to pay tribute to Carol Grant, who has decided to step down as a Trustee.

Carol has been a hugely supportive Vice-Chair and Chair of the Board’s Health & Wellbeing initiatives sub-committee, which helped oversee aspects of the pilots and the successful Coast Path Connectors bid (you can read more about the NLHF funded project on page 16). We wish Carol well as she develops a new phase of her career in the South-East.

As the days shorten, please take advantage of the superb Autumnal weather to get out on your favourite bits of the Path or discover new sections, and while you are out and about, I hope you can find the time to explore and enjoy the rich heritage that the Path has to offer.

Bob Mark Chair of the South West Coast Path Association

CHAMPIONING OUR NATIONAL TRAILS

Historically, National Trails have been under-resourced and under-represented at a national level. Our combined public benefit impact across the tourism and recreation, economy, and health & wellbeing being far greater than the public investment given to maintain, promote and expand this amazing network.

For the past five-years the South West Coast Path Association has been working with other trail managers across the UK to get a stronger collective voice for the trails. Supported by Natural England and the Heritage Lottery Fund we worked together to build a business case for a national organisation to represent and champion the trails network. The Association managed this work on behalf of the wider network.

Last November the Charity Commission registered National Trails UK (NTUK) as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation. Following a national recruitment campaign for trustees, a new Board was voted in at an AGM in March. The Board has oversight of the new charity and established an Advisory Council comprising representative from all the UK National Trails. In addition, a Coast Path Forum has been set up to share knowledge and experience between the established coast paths (including the Wales, Pembrokeshire, South West and Norfolk Coast Paths) and emerging new section of the England Coast Path.

The short-term focus of NTUK will be to engage UK governments to recognise the public benefits delivered by the National Trails

DID YOU KNOW?

network and seek resources to support the work of the Association and other trail management organisations to grow equity of access to the trails network. We will also work with the National Parks and National Landscapes to amplify our voice with public health bodies to promote the wider benefits of walking and connecting to nature - championing our Natural Health Service.

There are 20 National Trails designated in the UK covering over 3,800 miles: Cleveland Way, Cotswold Way, England Coast Path, Glyndwr's Way, Hadrian's Wall Path, North Downs Way, Peddars Way/Norfolk Coast Path, Offa's Dyke Path, Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, Pennine Bridleway, Pennine Way, Ridgeway Trail, South Downs Way, South West Coast Path, Thames Path, Yorkshire Wolds Way, Great Glen Way, Southern Upland Way, Speyside Way, West Highland Way. The Government has announced the establishment of Wainwright’s Coast-to-Coast Path as the 21st National Trail. Once this and the new sections of the England Coast Path are designated it will add more than 2,000 miles to the network.

The Cleveland Way

Members of the new Board. From left: Shane Logan, Andy Gattiker, Simon Kearey, Taryn Nixon, Katy Owen, Jo Atkey, Jeremy Clarke, Paul Hamblin and Julian Gray

CAN update

We have been continuing our Connecting Actively to Nature (CAN) projects in Devon this year, and over the summer completed a project in Plymouth in collaboration with Elder Tree Befriending, and were also joined by members from Argyle Community Trust. For this project we explored the Coast Path local to Plymouth, and similar to previous projects we were joined by local experts along the way. Highlights included: a ferry trip and visit to Mountbatten Tower and at Wembury, on a very hot day in August we walked along towards Wembury Point and had a fantastic introduction to seashore wildlife with Coral from Devon Wildlife Trust’s Wembury Marine Centre. For our last session, we walked from Jennycliff to Mountbatten and were joined by John from Devon Birds who spotted birds along the coast.

What the participants thought about the sessions:

Beautifulwalks,interestinginformation,goodcompany.

Gotmeouttoseeareashaven’tseenforyears.Keepingme healthierthansittingdownallthetime.

This means that we have now completed 9 CAN projects and have just started the 10th. This year, the focus has been on working more closely with partner organisations so that we can reach the people who will benefit it most. As such, this latest project is working with the Stroke Association in north Devon. For this, we are introducing members of their North Devon support group to Coast Path locations, and due to the mobility needs of the group, we are visiting easily accessible sections of Coast Path, which still offer good views and interesting stories. At the time of writing, we had a great first session at Fremington Quay in September and were joined by John and Peter from the Fremington Heritage Centre who gave us insights into the history of the area. We are looking forward to more sessions in the future with this group.

The funding for these projects will finish in Summer 2023 and so we are working with Active Devon, to ensure that lessons are learnt and that there are further opportunities in the future.

Wayne joined the SWCPA as Finance Manager in June 2022. His role is to maintain all aspects of the accounts along with supporting our team and Trustees by providing financial information and reports used to monitor, plan and achieve the Association’s goals.

Wayne's previous accounting experience covers both private and public sectors with much of the last decade spent in Higher and Special Needs Education.

"Asalife-longDevonian,Ihavealwaysfeltprivilegedtohave sucheasyaccesstothestunningcoastandcountrysidein theSouthWest,mydogshavealwaysenjoyeditjustasmuch asmebutsincejoiningtheSWCPA,Ihaverealisedthatthere is still so much more of it to see!"

Thank you to local path reps

Sue & Mike James – Marsland Mouth to Morwenstow

Sue and Mike have been meticulous with their monitoring and reporting of the condition of the SWCP and have kept a large notebook containing pictures and details of all the furniture and any issues or recommendations for improvements to their section. They have a real passion for the Path and have thoroughly enjoyed their time volunteering but due to a change in circumstances they have chosen to step down from the local path rep role. Thank you both for your support and help over the years.

An official welcome to our new Finance Manager, Wayne Mackney who joined us mid-year.

We are turning 50!

It’s a golden age and we intend to celebrate in style.

Without our members, supporters, amazing volunteers, and the team at HQ, we simply wouldn’t be where we are today. We want everyone to join us in the celebration as we plan some ‘trailblazing’ events to align with our Trailblazing theme! Here is what we have confirmed so far.

A BIG thank you to ABG Design for our 50th logo

We were privileged to receive the design skills of ABG Design who donated their time and creativity to develop the 50th logo. We are so grateful for their enthusiasm and passion for the charity and look forward to working with them further as our anniversary plans take shape.

“WereallyenjoyedworkingwiththeSouthWestCoastPath Association,it'sabigtimeofcelebrationforalltheteamand itsstrongmembershipbaseandloyalbandofvolunteers.

Thewholeprocesswasarealpleasureanditisgreattosee peoplethatarereallycommittedtopreservingandrepairing our wonderful Coast Path.

Wearedelightedwiththeresultsandtherewillbelotsmore toseeastheyentertheir50th year.Agreatteamtoworkwith andgreatdesignoutcome.”

Howard Miles, Managing Director, ABG Design

We are creating a relay walk along the entire 630 miles with an endpoint at Royal William Yard in Plymouth – the Association’s HQ, and handily positioned on the Coast Path!

Start Point – Minehead, Friday 12th May Start Point - South Haven Point, Saturday 27th May Finish Point - Royal William Yard, Thursday 15th June

More details on how to get involved will be made available soon – check the website.

South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year 2022 Exhibition

Ocean Studios, Royal William Yard, Plymouth

Opening Thursday 15th June 2023

Our inaugural exhibition will showcase beautiful images of the Coast Path that explore personal connections, nature, urban and industrial heritage and climate change.

The exhibition will also include images from our new Young Photographer of the Year Award.

With thanks to our sponsors St Austell Brewery for supporting the competition and the exhibition.

Annual General Meeting and Forum

Friday 16th June

Royal William Yard, Plymouth, PL1 3RP

Stay up to date with our 50th anniversary plans at southwestcoastpath.org.uk/50/

Author, Katherine May, joins the charity as an ambassador

We are excited to announce that we are welcoming author Katherine May, as an ambassador of the Association.

“I’mdeeplyhonouredtobecomeanambassadorforthe SouthWestCoastPath.Forme,thisruggedandbeautiful routerepresentssomanythings-Icometoittocelebrate goodtimes,andtohealmyselfinhardtimes.IhopeIcan help others to fall in love with the SWCP, and to treat it with the respect it needs and deserves.”

Katherine is an internationally bestselling author and podcaster living in Whitstable, UK.

Her book, TheElectricityofEveryLivingThing tells the story of the year in which Katherine comes to terms with her midlife autism diagnosis, and her journey of discovery as she sets out to walk the SWCP. Setting her feet down on the rugged and difficult path by the sea, the answer begins to unfold. The physical and psychological journeys become inextricably entwined, and as Katherine finds her way across the untameable coast, she also finds the way to herself.

Find out more at katherine-may.co.uk

South West Coast Path Forum and Association AGM

Due to continuing concerns about the pandemic the Annual General Meeting and SW Coast Path Forum were hosted as webinars this June. The Forum ran first with nine speakers covering issues impacting the Coast Path across three streams: people, environment, and economy. External speakers included: Clare Wallerstein and Bryon Stokes, Cornwall Climate Care; Nicki Bailey, South Devon AONB; Carolyn Petersen, Exeter University; and Sarah Jellard, Community Environment Education Therapy CIC. The AGM followed, chaired by Bob Mark. Around 80 participants attended each of the online events and videos of the presentations are available on our web site and YouTube channel. Four walks were held over the 11th and 12th June for Members, Trustees, staff and local/area reps. The walks started at Minehead, Carbis Bay, Mount Edgcumbe and Portland.

We’re looking forward to hosting the 2023 AGM in-person at Royal William Yard, Plymouth on the 16th June.

Maids [Community Tour] with Fran Rowse

Beer 52 Collaboration

We are proud to announce a new collaboration with craft beer subscription company Beer52. The South West Coast Path has helped inspire their South West themed box of craft beer to their 200k members. Beer52 has become one of our latest Business Mile Makers, supporting a mile of the Path, and has brewed a special beer, with Wild Beer Co (a south west brewery), called Mile Maker to celebrate.

Fraser Doherty, co-founder of Beer52, says: “We love the SouthWest,andnotjustbecauseofitsamazingcraft breweriesandpubs;thehistory,thevibrantcultureandthe opportunitiestogetoutandexplorenatureallmakeitone our favourite places to visit and write about. So, when we found out about the South West Coast Path Association, weweredeterminedtoworkwiththecharityonsomething reallycreativeandmeaningful.That’swhywe’resoproud tobecomeaMileMakerbusiness,andwhywe’vebreweda special ‘Mile Maker’ Oat Pale Ale with the SWCPA and Somerset’sWildBeerCo,whichwillgoouttoBeer52 subscribers across the UK.”

Beer52 will be releasing a special offer to SWCPA members which will be in our December eNews. If you haven’t subscribed already go to southwestcoastpath.org.uk/enews

Photographer Fran Rowse, winner of South West Graduate Photography Prize 2021, has been working on her residency with Fotonow CIC (supported by South West Coast Path Association) across Cornwall. Her project 'Maids' is inspired by the history of the Bal Maiden and grew from her own personal experiences growing up in rural Cornwall. Fran has been developing FREE pop-up fashion and portraits workshops for young women (12-20y/o) to take part in. Working in three rural communities (Newlyn, St Just and Tintagel) participants have taken part and worked with Fran to explore female identity, using art and fashion to draw similarities and find a sense of belonging in Cornish heritage.

The workshops consist of two aspects; collage and conversations about life in rural Cornwall and afterwards a chance to have a creative portrait made, which is also a creative casting for two future productions on the South West Coast Path.

Fran has been bringing these conversations to life, using ball gowns and accessories from local charity shops, styling and play will encourage participants into a conversation about fast fashion in the modern age.

To find our more contact info@fotonow.org

Volunteers walk the walk

A big thank you to our new engagement volunteers Marshall Plummer (centre), Helen Marshall (right) and Johara Bellari (left). Not only have they been supporting our monthly walks in collaboration with Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support (DCRS), but they also supported our amazing Saltlines Community Day - and have been helping out on the recent Plymouth-based Connecting Actively to Nature (CAN) project. Marshall explains his reasoning for being involved in this work: "The Coast Path can often be breathtaking. It'saprivilegetobeabletoshareasmallpart of it with those new to these shores."

Johara comments "TheencountersImakeduringourwalks aresorichandlovely,Ireallyappreciatewalkingthecoast pathsurroundedbyaninternationalgroupofpeople.Ifeel nourishedaftereverywalk,andIhopethateachoneinthe groupdoestoo."

There will be more opportunities for people to get involved with the Association in this way and with other community groups in the coming weeks thanks to the new Coast Path Connectors Project - see page 16.

Saltlines Community Day

In July we held a very special community outreach day with Improving Lives Plymouth, Elder Tree Befriending and Devon & Cornwall Refugee Support. inviting them to join us on a walk from Mount Edgcumbe to Kingsand-Cawsand where they were met by author and SWCPA Ambassador Raynor Winn and the fabulous Gig Spanner Big Band who performed music from their Saltlines project, and other songs.

The day was spectacular on all fronts. Fantastic company as we walked the 3.5miles from Mount Edgcumbe through idyllic woodland to Kingsand-Cawsand, glorious weather, an engaging talk from Raynor about her experience walking the Coast Path, followed by a beautiful concert from the talented Gigspanner Big Band, before we headed back to Plymouth on the ferry.

It was a day that will forever be etched into the memory of all who were lucky to be there.

Cindy from Improving Lives Plymouth said of the day, “Itwasamazingandmadeevenmorespecialbyoneofour grouptakingmyhandandthankingmeforsuchawonderful day.Hedoesn’tsmileoftensoitwasarealpleasuretoseethe lookofgenuinehappinessonhisface.”

To see more photos of the day go to southwestcoastpath.org/ 2022/07/28/saltlines-community-day/

World Trails Film Festival

We were thrilled when the film, Caroline's Story, was selected to show at the World Trails Film Festival in Greece last month. The film tells the inspiring story of Caroline, who was in a devastating motor-bike accident in 2008. Not only did she lose her partner, she also lost her leg and part of her arm – changing her life forever. Despite everything, Caroline was determined to walk again and after seven years, defied the belief of her doctors and even herself when she walked the 630 miles of the South West Coast Path.

If you haven't seen the film you can watch it on our YouTube channel: youtu.be/sY8X2WoVgv8

INSPIRED BY THE COAST

Our series celebrating the artists that take inspiration from the coast continues. Below is a snapshot of artists we have featured recently.

Cornwall-based artist Laurie McCall has established himself as an artist known for his bold stylised paintings of the surf and coastline that he calls home. Laurie is also a photographer with an eye for capturing stunning images of waves and has recently enjoyed using oils to paint coastal scenes in an impressionistic style.

Theeverchanginglightand weather conditions we have hereinCornwalloffersendlesslight bulb moments for me. The South West CoastPathgivesmethefreedomto exploresomanyplacesthataren’t accessiblebycar;ithelpsmeescape the crowds in the summer; and find peace and quiet in what has become quite a hectic and frantic world.”

@lauriemccallart

@lauriemccallphoto

Read the blog at southwestcoastpath.org/ 2022/09/26/laurie-mccall/

Emerging artist Kathleen Ashcroft lives in South Devon and runs along the Coast Path near her house most days. Her keen interest in the built heritage and history on the stretch of coastline near her home played an influential role when it came to her recent Arts degree in 3D Design and Crafts. Lighthouses were the source of inspiration for her stunning geometric jewellery designs made from recycled metals.

The Coast Path provides constant inspiration. I enjoy thenostalgiaofthePath,thereminders of life long gone. This could be the lookouttowersfromthewar,oldslipways once used by fishermen, even a rusting chunk of metal that provides questions as to what it once was.”

@kathleen.ashcroft.jewellery

Read the blog at southwestcoastpath.org/ 2022/07/28/kathleen-ashcroft/

Sculptor Tamsyn Trevorrow’s artwork takes inspiration from her enduring relationship with the sea and coastline of West Cornwall. The fired and glazed pieces reflect the textures and colours of this rugged stretch of coastline home to mining heritage, wild ocean vistas, and awe-inspiring granite rock formations.

I hope my work has a tactility and naturalness that people respond to helping them reconnect to nature, by reflecting nature it produces past memories and feelings helping our emotional wellbeing as does spending time outside on the coast.”

@tamsyntrevorrowceramics

Read the blog at southwestcoastpath.org/ 2022/06/29/

tamsyn-trevorrow/

Our Inspired By The Coast series celebrates different perspectives on what the Coast Path means to people and demonstrates how it creatively inspires and supports people in such different ways. If you are an artist and would like to be featured, or would like to suggest someone to be featured, please email aletha@southwestcoastpath.org.uk

South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year 2022

South West Coast Path Young Photographer of the Year Award

Photo by Nick Shepherd

SURVEYS

We are at that time of year when our team of fabulous volunteers head out during the Autumn and Winter months to survey the Path. They will be checking that everything is in order and that the Path is meeting the standards set for a National Trail. Our path reps also note where any areas of improvements could be made. If you see any of our volunteers surveying whilst out on the Trail make sure you give them a friendly hello, as without their time and support the Path would not be as great as it is.

PATH IMPROVEMENTS: COMPLETED

Branscombe Interpretation –East Devon

The new Branscombe interpretation panel has been installed. Dorset AONB and the Jurassic Coast Trust worked with ourselves and 7 other partners to remove and recycle 4 faded, out of date and damaged interpretation panels on the Coast Path at the back of Branscombe beach and replace with one panel which co-ordinates partner information to create engaging content. The project cost £5940 and the SWCPA contributed £1800.

BEFORE

AFTER

Torcross Path reopening, South Devon

Cliff protection works at Torcross in South Devon were completed during August. These works have enabled the Coast Path to be re-opened after it had to be diverted following a cliff fall in 2018. The reopened section allows the Coast Path to run on the most seaward route and for walkers to once again be able to enjoy the iconic views along Slapton Sands. The whole project cost £145,725 with most funding being sourced from the England Coast Path Establishment Fund and the SWCPA contributed £5000 to cover 27% of the shortfall costs which occurred due to the steeply rising costs of materials and labour.

Start Point Easy Access Gateway, South Devon

The vehicular metal gate leading from the car park down to Start Point Lighthouse is now being locked due to antisocial behaviour. The gateway to the side of the track was currently not wheelchair / tramper accessi ble. Our National Trail Officer organised a site visit with Devon Disabled Ramblers, Devon County Council and the landowner to discuss a way forward. It was agreed at the meeting that the gateway could be moved into a new position which now allows access for wheelchairs and trampers.

Path reps from left; Steve Church, Lucy Daniel, Margaret Bonner

PATH IMPROVEMENTS: UNDERWAY

Bosigran Steps - West Cornwall National Trust

Redefinition and regrading of 4 sections of Coast Path around Bosigran cliff castle to make it easier to use all year round. There will also be installation of some granite steps and new drainage waterbreaks. Total cost £3400 with SWCPA contribution of £1700.

St Mary’s Project – Torbay

This project proposes numerous improvements along an approximate 2km length of the South West Coast Path from Berry Head car park to its junction with St Mary’s Road south of Brixham. The projects include, new waymarker posts, replacement step boards, stone surfacing of sections of the Path which become very muddy during the wetter months and new drainage gullies. A local contractor has been sourced for these works and the project has been able to go ahead due to funding support from Torbay Council, Brixham Town Council, Torbay Rambling, Totnes Ramblers and South Devon Ramblers.

England Coast Path

We are continuing to work with our partners to put together bids to enable Path improvement works and improved signage and waymarking as part of the England Coast Path Establishment Fund. The first set of wildlife discs and plaques, which have been designed to try and reduce wildlife disturbance, have been installed along certain sections in Cornwall. A big thank you to our Local Path Rep Andy for installing these at the agreed points.

Step Up and Find Your Way

Recently the Step Up Appeal has funded 50 boards to West Cornwall National Trust and 27 boards for the St Mary's project Torbay. The Find Your Way Appeal has funded 7 signs for the Torbay area and 2 signs for North Cornwall. We are also funding 4 new granite waymarkers and 7 new metal way marker discs which is the style used at Botallack and Roscommon in Cornwall.

PATH IMPROVEMENTS: PLANNED

Path Surfacing at Trevose Head, North Cornwall

Stile to gateway at Sharkham Point, Torbay

Due to cattle grazing being introduced to increase the biodiversity of the meadows which the Trail passes through, a temporary wooden stile was installed to keep the cattle contained within the field and not off wandering along the Coast Path. We are working with our partners to get the stile changed to a kissing gate to make access easier in this area whilst keeping the meadows stock proof. The National Trust who are the landowner (land is leased to Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust) will be installing the gateway and the SWCPA will be funding the materials.

Project costing £1100, SWCPA contribution £668.

Undercliffs Boardwalks, Dorset - East Devon

This project will see the replacement of broken boardwalks which have reached the end of their life in the Undercliff National Nature Reserve.

The boardwalks are located along the coastal footpath in a remote location and if not replaced it would make the Trail extremely muddy and during the wetter winter months could become impassable or pose a significant hazard to walkers who would have to navigate deep slippery mud. Total cost £8160 with the SWCPA funding the materials for the project up to £4000.

Trevose Head offers a route on relatively easy terrain with some gentle slopes. Due to increased footfall the Trail has been widening and encroaching onto the important grassland as visitors have been opting for walking on the grassy surface which has been easier than some of the muddy sections of Path. To protect the diverse grassland and improve the walking experience some sections of the Path are going to be stone surfaced making it easy to walk all year round. The first section to be improved will be on the East Side of the Headland near the lifeboat station. This 220m stretch will be widened to 1.75m and surfaced with crushed slate stone from a local quarry. Our partners, the National Trust, are looking at upgrading and improving further stretches along this 2 mile section in the near future. Total project cost £4690, SWCPA contribution £2345.

Chynhalls Cliff Boardwalk and bridge, West Cornwall

This project will see 4 improvements being made. The first project is the replacement of an existing bridge which is now in need of upgrading.

The second is replacement of an existing boardwalk as the structure has come to the end of its life. The new boardwalk will be wider than the existing narrow boardwalk making it easier to use. The third project will add an additional handrail to an existing Oak bridge for visitor safety and the fourth project will remove an old pinch stile which will be replaced with a new kissing gate. All these structures will be built from locally sourced oak. Total cost £10,000 with SWCPA contributing £5000.

We couldn’t look after the path without our wonderful volunteer path reps. We do have a few local path rep vacancies at present as shown on the map on page 38 & 39. If you would like to support the trail and the association by volunteering please do register your interest by emailing hello@southwestcoastpath. org.uk and you will be contacted when a local rep vacancy becomes available near you.

This year, we are excited to announce that we have been awarded a £220,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for an exciting new ‘Coast Path Connectors project’, that will open up coastal walking to a range of new audiences.

Following on from the successes of our Connecting Actively to Nature (CAN) and other engagement work, and working alongside our existing Path and Area Reps, we want to help improve equity of access along the South West Coast Path. We want to support local people to make use of the Path for health and wellbeing, through a network of new volunteers.

The Coast Path Connectors project will be a 2 year project, and we will be setting up five hubs along the trail in West Cornwall, Plymouth, Torbay, North Devon, and Dorset; areas which have been established as those that are of high need. Trained Coast Path volunteers will act as walk leaders, points of contact and advocates for the Coast Path in their local communities. For this project we will be expanding on existing partnership work by collaborating with organisations that already have connections with local communities.

Lorna Sherriff, National Trail Officer, said

“We are delighted to have received this support from the National Lottery players. Almost 50 years ago volunteers set up the charity to create the South West Coast Path and over 100 active volunteers remain at the heart of protecting and promoting this world-class trail. The Coast Path Connectors

projectwillallowustoexpandourvolunteercapacitytobetter engage with local communities and ensure more people will be able to experience the health and wellbeing benefits of connecting with nature by using our beautiful Coast Path.”

Stuart McLeod, Director England - London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said “Health and wellbeing is such an important part of our everyday lives, even more so since the pandemic, and the benefits have been widely championed.ThankstoNationalLotteryplayers,thisfantastic project will not only connect more people to the beautiful landscape of the South West Coast Path but also engage with some of the most deprived communities. At The National Lottery Heritage Fund, we’re incredibly proud to play a role inensuringournaturalheritageissafeguardedforgenerations to come, but also that the projects we fund give people the chance to connect with the nature and wildlife that is on their doorstep.”

If you are interested in finding out more about this project, or to volunteer, please contact Alex Turner, Coast Path Connectors Project Manager, alex@southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Walking through Mount Edgcumbe.

Photo by Dom Moore

WORLD TRAILS CONFERENCE

Julian Gray, Director, South West Coast Path Association Vice-Chair, World Trails Network

Trail managers, academics and enthusiasts from more than 50 countries gathered together in September for the eighth World Trails Conference. The event was hosted in Skiathos, Greece with online access for those unable to travel.

Four of the big issues discussed at the event were how trails are mitigating against climate change threats, the impact of the pandemic on trail use, equity of access, and the role of trails in interpreting culture. However, the conference covered a very broad range of topics with 118 international speakers from six continents presenting across thematic streams including: community, culture, development, funding, health, knowledge management, media, nature, sustainability, technology, and tourism.

The South West Coast Path was represented in several sessions, showcasing the Association’s economic impact and health and wellbeing research. A joint presentation was given on Pandemic Impacts on Trail Use/Overuse and Mitigation Strategies alongside the Bruce Trail, Canada and Appalachian Trail, USA – highlighting the different approaches across the three trails.

A presentation on the South West and England Coast Path National Trails was given as part of the Trails of the World program which was open to the public. The Association’s Director, Julian Gray, moderated a session on Trails & New Ideas and was part of a panel discussion on Trails & Climate Change

AworkshopwasheldbytheTrailsandSustainabilityTask Teamlookingathowtrailscanhaveapositiveimpactonthe environment,peopleandtheeconomy.Anonlinetoolboxis beingdevelopedtohelptrailmanagersandacademicsaround the world share best practice and the latest research. A white papersettingouttheWorldTrailsNetworkpositionontrails andsustainabilitywasdiscussedandwillbepublishedlater thisyear.

WORLD TRAILS FILM FESTIVAL

Running alongside the conference was the World Trails Film Festival. Through rich cinematography, films explored themes including trail creation, adventure, spirituality, healing, and diversity in nature and culture. We were delighted when the short film, Caroline'sStory, commissioned by the Association and directed by Rob Hayward was selected to show at the Festival this year. Two other films featuring the South West Coast Path were included in the Festival: Cornwall Climate Care’s LifeontheEdge and Adam Skerrett’s Mythmaker. A World Tour is included in this year’s festival and we’re hoping to host a selection of films from the festival along the Coast Path later this year.

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Porthtowan, West Cornwall. Photo by Ian Jesson

SHOUT OUT TO OUR SPONSORS

A huge thank you to our long term and new supporters for their support this year.

This year, our EveryMileMatters campaign received lead sponsorship from South West Water

Theme sponsorship of the Economy section supported by the South West Business Council

Luxury Coastal have come on board to support our 50th Anniversary and will be the main sponsor of our Coast Path Passport, commemorative edition.

Section sponsorship of North Devon is provided by our canine loving friends at Forthglade

We have also got started developing partnerships for our 50th Anniversary campaign Trailblazing St Austell Brewery are the headline sponsor of the South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year 2022 competition (see page 12) and are also triple mile makers, having donated three times what it costs to look after the Path for one mile, for one year.

MEET THE BUSINESS MILEMAKERS GRANT FUNDING

Businesses who are giving back to the Path and committed to giving the amount it costs on average to ‘make’ one mile of the Trail per year - £1,400.

Action Challenge had their South West Coast 50 event this summer as part of their Ultra Challenge series, featuring 50km, 25km and 10km loops. The team were delighted to receive their Mile Maker sign for their offices.

Our recent collaboration with Beer 52 has seen the craft beer discovery club join us as Business Mile Makers. You can read more about the collaboration on page 9.

We have also received grant funding towards our Storm Damage Appeal from long term corporate supporter Athletic Brewing. Read more about their Two for the Trails grant on page 37.

Jurassic Coast, Dorset. Photo by Chantal Cox

SOUTH WEST WATER SHARE TIPS ON HOW TO CONSERVE WATER - EVERY DROP HELPS!

This year has been very dry so far. At the time of writing this article, we are in early September and we’ve had very little rain for the last nine months compared to usual. According to the Met Office, July was the driest since 1935. River flows are below normal across the whole of the South West and most parts of the UK.

At the same time, through the summer months demand for tap water rocketed. We're all using more water, and we saw demand go up by up to 77 million litres in one day. That's the same as supplying three extra cities the size of Exeter.

High levels of demand and the unprecedented weather conditions mean that as we move into September our reservoirs are lower than usual for this time of year. In fact, at the end of August our total reservoir storage was at 42.7%.

We know that climate change is likely to bring more prolonged hot and dry weather conditions, like those we have seen this summer. We also know that as well as water in our taps, we

need it flowing in the landscape around us, in streams, lakes, ponds and reservoirs. It is vital for wildlife and a healthy environment.

So we are asking for your help. We need to get demand down, and it's really easy... save water. A little less saves a lot!

If every one of our customers saved just 5 litres of water a day, that would total 10 million litres saved. Fewer baths and quicker showers, full loads in the washing machine, reusing water on your plants – there's lots of easy ways to save water in your home and garden. And by making small changes, using less water can become a way of life, for the long term.

A big thank you to South West Water as our lead sponsor of the Every Mile Matters campaign.

While we're asking for your help to save water, we're doing our bit too. Our teams continue to work tirelessly around the clock to fix around 2,000 leaks a month, to manage and increase supplies to customers whilst reducing water usage at our own sites and across the network. If you spot a leak, we might not know about it, please report it to us. Call us on 0800 230 0561 (24 hours a day).

In the last two years South West Water has doubled the number of leak detection staff and now has 140 leak detectors keeping our leakage levels at one of the lowest in the industry. Around 30% of leaks in the region occur on private supplies, and we are also working closely with customers to detect and help repair leaks on their property.

We know that a safe and reliable water supply is the number one priority for our customers. This is why current and future plans are focused on achieving that by reducing demand for water from the environment alongside improving the quality of water in the environment in the first place. We also have an ambitious programme for leakage reduction and water

efficiency. Put together, this means less pressure on the environment despite growing demand for water from population growth and the impacts of climate change.

Since 2003 we have invested heavily in catchment-based solutions, through programmes such as Upstream Thinking. We continue to expand this work to improve raw water quality by reducing pollution and sediment loads from land use runoff and soil degradation. Our catchment-based interventions have many benefits, helping slow the flow of water from upland areas, in-turn reducing flood risk and increasing water availability.

We want to thank customers right across our region for playing an important role in reducing usage and only using the water they need. A little less, saves a lot!

This article was written by South West Waterour Every Mile Matters headline sponsor.

AGATHA CHRISTIE’S POTENT PLANTS

Ask most people who Hercules Poirot is, or Miss Marple, and they will be able to tell you instantly. The characters created by the indisputable Queen of Crime are superstars in the world of detective fiction, products of the fertile, if slightly macabre, mind of the world’s biggest selling author, Agatha Christie.

Agatha was a child of the southwest coast. Born in Torquay, she bathed in the sea at Elberry, roller skated on the pier, honeymooned at The Grand Hotel with its fine sea views and wrote in solitude on Burgh Island. She was also a keen lover of gardens, so it seemed fitting to pay homage at Torre Abbey, itself intrinsically connected to the Torquay shoreline and on the ‘Agatha Mile,’ by creating a space dedicated to the plants she wrote about.

The ’Potent Plants Display’ within the walled garden of the Abbey is the result of weeks, if not months, of reading. Every one of her 66 novels and around 120 of her short stories were pored over to spot plant names and it became clear very quickly that plant poisons were clearly a go-to method of dispatching her unfortunate victims; over half the bodies littering her work are poisoned.

Equally fascinating is the real-life story behind this literary choice. During WW1 Agatha Christie, having volunteered for a time as a nurse, trained as a pharmacy assistant, taking the appropriate examinations and dispensing medicines to wounded soldiers returning from the Front to Torquay. This was a period when most medicines were still ‘made up’ to order, long before pills in blister packs and off the shelf remedies, and many ingredients were classified officially as ‘poison.’ Pharmacy shelves were full of coloured bottles clearly labelled as dangerous and Agatha was well aware of the perils of making mistakes. It can hardly come as a surprise, then, that she wrote her first published novel during this period.

‘The Mysterious Affair at Styles’ is a classic story of death by poisoning, accurate in its descriptions and chemistry and solved by none other than M. Poirot. It was so accurate it won a rave review from ‘The Pharmaceutical Journal,’ something Agatha was enormously proud of.

Throughout human history, although not always fully understood, plants have played a key role in treating illness or causing great harm. Everything depends on the dosage and the display at Torre Abbey reflects this. The plants we grow for their beauty often have a sinister side. Cyanide, taxine, oxalic acid, and digitalis are all poisons developed from plant material so if you have almond or peach trees, yew hedges, rhubarb, and foxgloves in your own garden you have the basic ingredients for murder. In most cases the same plants also provide essential medicines, or at least have been used as such in the past.

Hopefully, the display will continue to intrigue visitors for as long as Agatha’s mysteries have and bring as much enjoyment.

Written by Ali Marshall, Head Gardener, Torre Abbey Gardens www.torre-abbey.org.uk

EXPLORING THE MILITARY HISTORY OF RAME HEAD

In the Rame Head Section of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), just off the South West Coast Path in an area now often referred to as Cornwall’s ‘forgotten corner’, lies the historic site of Maker Heights.

Home to several former military defences, Maker was once integral to the country’s strategy against invasion from as early as the 18th Century.

Commanding a strategic position overlooking Plymouth Sound and the English Channel, Maker was a prime site for defensive fortifications first constructed in 1782 under imminent threat of invasion from French and Spanish forces. Built initially as mud platforms circled by defensive ditches and with mounted guns, the Redoubts (as they are officially known), were designed to prevent foreign troops landing in Cawsand Bay and advancing uphill, where they would have been able to fire on Plymouth’s Royal Navy docks. In the late 1780’s thick stone walls were added to two Redoubts and barracks were built, and in the 1790’s cannons were brought into place. When threat of a French invasion arose again in the 1860s, some of the Redoubts were remodelled and they continued to defend the coastline until they were officially decommissioned by the Ministry of Defence after the end of the Second World War.

Recognising their historical significance, the Redoubts were designated as Scheduled Monuments in the early 1970’s, adding them to a list of nationally protected archaeological sites managed by Historic England. The sites were since listed on the Heritage at Risk register as a result of unchecked vegetation which caused considerable damage to their masonry. Now, the Cornwall AONB’s Monumental Improvement project is working closely with the caretakers of these unique sites, the Rame

Conservation Trust (RCT) and Evolving Places, to ensure that the Redoubts along with 37 other Scheduled Monuments in the protected landscape, are better identified, supported and enjoyed. The project is seeking to remove as many of the Scheduled Monuments included as possible from the Heritage at Risk register, providing training for local volunteers to help care for them in the future. Through an extensive activity programme and increased interpretation, the project will also connect more people to heritage in the AONB, provide skill development, create jobs and improve the health and wellbeing of local communities.

Since the start of the Monumental Improvement project, it has funded a new improved footpath at Maker Heights which links Redoubt 4 to the South West Coast Path section between Mount Edgcumbe and Cawsands. A new bridge has also been installed at Redoubt 5 to allow access to the site once more and vegetation management works have been undertaken to make the monuments easier to identify. A series of ecological and archaeological surveys have been undertaken and the AONB will be working closely with the RCT and Evolving Places in the next two years of the project to implement a bespoke management plan to ensure their future protection.

This September, Maker Heights took part in the AONB’s first annual Monument Celebration Week during Heritage Open Days, giving members of the public a unique opportunity to venture inside the military buildings and explore their history with the Rame Conservation Trust. Over the next two years, the Monumental Improvement project will help to increase access to the sites and help to secure a more protected future for these extraordinary pieces of British history.

Written by Natalie Haly, Monumental Improvement Project Manager, Cornwall AONB

The Monumental Improvement project is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Cornwall Council, Historic England, Cornwall AONB, National Trust and Cornwall Heritage Trust. To find out more, please visit www.cornwall-aonb.gov.uk/monumental-improvement

SCULPTURE

For those familiar with the South Coast of

you may well have stumbled upon this incredibly positioned sculpture park situated on the old Coast Path above the fishing village of Coverack.

For those that have not yet discovered it, it is worth the small diversion from the current SWCP to the old Coast Path route.

The sculptural artworks are by Cornish artist, Terence Coventry (1938 – 2017), whose family farmed the land south of Coverack where the park now sits.

Terence Coventry studied at Stourbridge School of Art and the Royal College, London.

Very much ‘hands on’, Coventry made his sculpture not in a traditional artist’s studio but in a workshop akin to that of an engineer or blacksmith. Rooted in a strong figurative tradition, his sculpture exists in spite of any vagaries or trends in the art world and is an intensely personal art, practical and unpretentious, honest and imbued with great integrity. Always taking his inspiration from the natural world, the way in which he deftly transformed an assemblage of shapes into a familiar bird, beast or body, is part of the magic of his art.

Terence Coventry lived and worked at Porthbean, Coverack. He farmed the surrounding fields and carved out a

second career later in life as a sculptor. He created the sculpture park in response to the need to store his large scale sculptures and it is maintained by his family according to his wishes.

Two books and various catalogues have been published on the artist, his sculptures are held in many public and private collections around the globe.

VISITING THE PARK

Visiting the park is a beautiful addition to walking the SWCP in this area. Discover the sculptures in their meadow-setting whilst also enjoying the breathtaking views out to sea. Be sure not to miss it when you're next in Coverack.

The sculpture park is an informal and private space, an area of outstanding natural beauty and a nature reserve.

Visitors are requested to respect the sculptures, the park and the family’s privacy.

The Terence Coventry Sculpture Park is a short walk to the south of Coverack, contained in three small meadows astride the old coast path. Around twenty five monumental sculptures are usually on display depending on demands from other venues.

Access is free of charge and open all year round.

further information on

Coventry go to

All images

Copyright: Terence Coventry Estate

Gallery Pangolin

Steve

I get a tremendous amount of my inspiration for subject matter from my association - for the greater part of my working life - with farming.”

Terence Coventry

PARISH TO PARISH –BOUNDING ALONG THE WEST DORSET COAST PATH

On each of the 11 parish boundaries along the Dorset coast path from Ware, on the Dorset/ Devon boundary, all the way to Abbotsbury there is now a handcrafted parish boundary marker letting the walker know when they have passed from one parish to the next.

The inspiration for this project stems from growing up in the heart of West Dorset. As a child, my Grandad would point out hand-crafted features in the landscape. Each provided clues about the history of the people and place –it was fascinating.

Combining experience in both the arts and countryside access this project provided the opportunity to reintroduce more of the ‘local’ and ‘distinctive’ interests back into our surroundings. The West Dorset Coast Path Parish Boundary project has brought people together to create artefacts to celebrate special locations. It’s a collaboration between local people, local landowners, local artists, and craftspeople in response to their landscape and its rich cultural history. These artefacts are not interpretation panels – they are practical “signposts” informing the walker when they pass from one parish to another.

Each artist was provided with a brief that contained information about the parishes to inspire the theme of the piece, stipulation that each piece was made from robust materials and in keeping with its location.

Each piece has an air of mystery about it encouraging walkers to investigate more into what it might mean and unearth for

themselves a bit of local history! For many people walking along the Coast Path the focus is often on the seascape –looking out onto that amazing mass of ocean and the beautiful narrow strip of coastal headland. This project hopes to also encourage the walker to look inland and gain better awareness about the landscape they are walking through.

This project could not have been achieved without the input and support of the local landowners and grant funding from the Coastal Communities Fund, coordinated by the Dorset Coast Forum. It is part of Dorset Coastal Connections, a connected portfolio of 18 projects along the Dorset coast which aims to support and boost the economies of Dorset coastal areas.

WrittenbyTaraHansford,StrategicOutdoorAccess Development Co, Dorset Council

Charmouth to Stanton St Gabriel –

To commemorate the alleged 836 Danish Viking landings on Charmouth beach. As you approach the gate the Viking landskip warships align with the sea horizon to take you back in time and witness the Viking fleet advancing towards the shore.

Artists Alex Brooks, Emma Molony & Tara Hansford.

Symondsbury to Bridport –

Remembering the “Wildcats of Bridport” a group of women netmakers who downed tools, went on strike and marched in protest of a pay cut and secured the support of Bridport.

Artist Alice Blogg http://www.aliceblogg.co.uk/

Chideock to Symondsbury –From the distance the walker can see the form suggesting the shape of a barrel which when reached invites the walker to stop and consider the coasts rich smuggling history.

Artist Delphine Jones https://www.delphinejones.com/

CONNECTING ANCIENT SITES AND LANDSCAPES

West Penwith is a unique and ancient landscape lying right at the very tip of the UK. This iconic area of Cornwall is home to moorlands, meadows, rugged coastlines, ancient sites and communities of wildlife and people.

The Penwith Landscape Partnership has uncovered many ancient sites, restored depleted habitats, engaged and connected with landowners, farmers, local communities and conservation organisations enabling them to come together to reconnect the landscape for both people and wildlife.

One of the Penwith Landscape Partnership's main aims is to help care for and support Penwith's amazing ancient sites, and to support access paths and trails linking these for visitors. Our trail guides have been designed to provide circular walks and links between Penwith's archaeological treasures, and along the way, you can discover breath-taking landscapes and coastal views. Our programme of work includes working with landowners to support trails, clearing vegetation, and improvements such as new gates. These three trail guides connect with the South West Coast Path and are freely available to download on the Penwith Landscape Partnership website.

TRAIL GUIDE: ST LEVAN AND TREEN

Featuring a prehistoric cliff castle, an early medieval religious centre, medieval farmed landscape, global communications history, military remains, and modern tourism, all in the parish of St Levan.

Distance: 3.76 miles

Time: Approx 3hrs

TRAIL GUIDE: MORVAH, TREGAMINION AND CHYPRAZE

A short but exciting trail in the parish of Morvah, featuring folklore, hedged lanes, coastal habitats and views, prehistoric sites, and traditional farming within ancient field systems.

Distance: 2 miles

Time: 1hr 30mins

TRAIL GUIDE: BOSCASWELL TO PENDEEN WATCH

A relatively short but jam-packed circular walk, taking in stunning views, ancient sites, post-industrial archaeology, a world-class visitor attraction, and fascinating flora in different habitats. Maybe even a Grey Seal!

Distance: 2.8 miles

Time: 1hr 30mins

The Penwith Landscape Partnership is a five-year project made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. It was formed in 2014 by a group of community organisations and individuals who came together and shared the aim to support the understanding, conservation and enhancement of the Penwith Landscape as a sustainable living and working landscape. For more information go to www.penwithlandscape.com

PASSPORT TO THE PATH

Our new Coast Path Passport launched in July providing an exciting new way for visitors to enjoy the Coast Path and support businesses along the 630-mile coastal route.

Alex Polizzi’s Hotel Inspector TV show provided the first reveal of the Passport when the Pack O’ Cards pub in Combe Martin (North Devon) became one of the first places to sign up as a Coast Path Passport stamping point.

Alex Polizzi said, “IamsoexcitedaboutthenewCoastPathPassportschemethatthe SouthWestCoastPathAssociationarelaunchingthissummer. It’sgoingtobefantasticforwalkersandbusinessesalongthePath. Ihopeyou'reallgoingtoenjoyit.”

Upon launching the Passport we were overwhelmed with the response – selling out of our first batch within just a few hours!

The new Coast Path Passport allows the millions of visitors who walk the South West Coast Path each year, to keep a record of their journey by collecting ‘stamps’ along the way reflecting the unique nature of each stretch of the Trail. The Passport will create a lasting memory to treasure, whilst also helping to raise much-needed funds to help care for the Path which is at increasing risk from climate change.

Over 100 ‘Way Makers’ (business supporters of the South West Coast Path Association) have signed up as Coast Path Passport stamping points including Visitor Information Centres, museums, cafes, shops and pubs. We’ll be introducing a few of them to you in this article.

Each of the unique ‘stamps’ has been hand carved by local craftsman, Marc Hoskin of Wild Work with a different design for each of the 7 sections of the Path, including a moorland pony for Exmoor, a wave for North Cornwall, a lighthouse for South Devon, an anchor for South Cornwall, a seal for North Devon, an ammonite for the Jurassic Coast, and a tin mine for West Cornwall.

Julian Gray, Director of the SWCPA comments, “We’rereallyexcited aboutthePassportwhichisbasedontheworld-famous‘Caminode Santiago’walkacrossNorthernSpainwhichusesthesamemodel.

Wehopethefunofcollectingthestampswillencouragepeopleofall agestoexperiencetheamazinghealthandwellbeingthattheSouth WestCoastPathoffers,whethertheyarewalkingjustonesmallbitor the whole lot!

It’salsoagreatwaytoraiseawarenessoftheworkwedoasacharity tohelpprotect,carefor,andsharethisamazingenvironmentaland tourismassetwhichcostsalmost£1millionayeartodo–halfof whichweraisefromoursupporters.”

SOMERSET AND EXMOOR

The start of the South West Coast Path in Minehead, Somerset is one that can be quite deceptive. As you walk along the seafront in Minehead you might find you have to switch gear quickly as you find yourself climbing and descending steep valleys, known as combes. The combes and the height of the cliffs on Exmoor, some of which are amongst the highest in England result in some notable gradients for walkers.

Before you set off though, you can get your passport stamped at a couple of locations – The Beach Hotel or Minehead Tourist Information Centre where a warm welcome will see you start your journey with a smile before you hit the undulating hills!

NORTH DEVON

The North Devon section of the Path is 80 miles of breath-taking scenery, some of it remote, with incredible geologically significant rock formations, such as Hartland Quay. Stretching from Combe Martin to Marsland Mouth, the coastline tracks the Bristol Channel where at certain points views across to Wales, and Lundy Island can be enjoyed.

There are a number of Way Maker stamping points located in this section, and we hope to welcome more to the route soon.

Aimee from the Beach Hotel at the start of the SWCP in Minehead

Natalie at Burton Art Gallery

James at Fremington Quay

Nicky at Minehead TIC

NORTH CORNWALL

The North Cornwall length faces the prevailing Atlantic westerlies, making for a sometimes exposed landscape. There are prominent headlands giving excellent coastal vistas and beautiful sandy beaches to be found at Bude and Newquay which makes it very popular with families and surfers alike. The iconic Tintagel is also to be found on this stretch if you want to go in search of Merlin’s cave and take in the historic and mythical heritage of the area.

Passport stamping points can be found at several places, including Bude Tourist Information Centre and Pengenna Pasties in Tintagel – yum! We like a stamping point that couples with providing some sustenance for the onward journey.

WEST CORNWALL

At 144 miles the West Cornwall length is the longest of all the stretches on the Path. It passes through some of the largest coastal towns in Cornwall, St Ives, Penzance, and Falmouth. Each one brimming with history, heritage, and a strong artistic identity. It also includes the promontories of Cape Cornwall, Land’s End, and the Lizard.

Stamping points on this stretch are varied, from tin mines, and hotels, to boats on the river Fal. Getting your passport stamped in this stretch will get you to discover some unique businesses on the Path.

Jo at Bude Tourist Information Centre

Pengenna Pasties at Tintagel

Rhi and Abi at Wave Crest Cafe

Oscar At Geevor Mine Count House Cafe

West Cornwall - Pedn Vounder.

Photo by James Loveridge

SOUTH CORNWALL

The South Cornwall stretch of coast is relatively sheltered, being either south-east or south-facing with much of it in lee of the large peninsula of the Lizard. This section traverses numerous coves and small harbours such as the Georgian port of Charlestown with a fascinating shipwreck museum. The stunning Rame Head juts out before you reach Cremyll, where a ferry crossing to reach Plymouth and the next county awaits.

Stamping points include a bookshop in Fowey, and restaurants and cafés with spectacular views – perfect pit-stops as you walk the Path.

SOUTH DEVON

The beautiful South Devon coastline is punctuated with towns and villages, and includes the largest urban area on the Path, Plymouth. The English Riviera length is famed for its red sandstone cliffs and beaches, and the historic seaside towns of Paignton, Dawlish, and Torquay.

Our Way Maker stamping points are established businesses that have been supporting the charity for many years and we are so grateful for their support of this new initiative.

Ryan at the Bay, Cawsand

The Inn on the Shore, Downderry

Rachel at Venus Cafe, Bigbury on Sea Emma and Lyla at Mount Batten Centre

South CornwallRame Head. Photographer Tobie Loates

JURASSIC COAST

Geology is both the curse and the boon of this part of the South West Coast Path. Stunning cliffs prone to erosion and sudden cliff falls are both beautiful but are equally vulnerable. The Jurassic Coast is 115 miles in length and features the official end of the South West Coast Path at South Haven Point.

Our stamping points are varied, and we look forward to welcoming new stamping points supporting the Coast Path Passport and the charity.

BEHIND THE LENS OF THE STAMPING POINT POSTER IMAGE

“Kate and I have made three trips to the SW Coast Path over the last half dozen years and have almost completed the whole Trail.

We had a most wonderful, surprising happening on our recent hike. Coming around the corner of Readymoney Cove in Fowey, I pulled up short and took a double take at the wall in front of me: I was staring at a photo of Kate hiking along the Path in Cornwall! It's a photo that is not only enlarged and mounted on the wall in our living room back in Montana, but now also graces the cover of the SWCP Association's new passport poster!

What a great and happy surprise! Along with snapping a picture of Kate - who was wearing the same hat and backpack as in the poster - I am willing to admit I stopped a couple of other SWCP hikers coming by to share our utter surprise with them. They were so kind to share our excitement.”

A big thanks to Scott and Kate for getting in touch.

Scott Bischke’s hiking image was entered into the South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year competition. We’re so grateful for their support of the charity.

Photo by Scott Bischke

SUMMER TRIAL OF THE COAST PATH PASSPORT

We have been using the summer to trial the scheme with selected stamping points to make sure everything is running smoothly before recruiting more Way Maker points in time for our big 50th anniversary celebrations next year. Passport users and stamping point venues will be asked for their feedback in the coming months.

If you have any feedback to share, please email business@ southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Mark at Wild Chesil Centre

Kate photographed with her image on the Stamping Point poster!

Eileen at Lulworth Visitor Centre

Jurassic CoastLulworth Cove - Photo by Billy Matthews

SOMERSET & EXMOOR

Minehead Information Centre

The Beach Hotel Minehead Harbour Gallery & Cafe

Porlock Visitor Centre

Lynmouth National Park Visitor Centre

The Bath Hotel, Lynmouth

NORTH DEVON

Pack O' Cards

Ilfracombe Tourist Information Centre

Woolacombe Tourist Information Café Croyde Bay

The Quay Café Stationmaster's Cafe Fremington Quay Café & Visitor Centre

The Galley

Bideford Tourist Information Centre (The Burton Art Gallery)

Northern Burrows Visitor Centre

Red Lion Hotel

Hartland Quay Hotel

NORTH CORNWALL

Bude Tourist Information Centre

WAY MAKER PASSPORT STAMPING POINTS

Our Way Maker Stamping Points are a growing network of businesses on or near the Path that are ready to welcome you and stamp your passport as you walk the Path. Go to our website for the most up to date list of stamping points on the Path www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/passport

Widemouth Bay Café

The Haven Cafe

Pengenna Pasties Tintagel

The Port William Inn

Oystercatcher

Padstow Tourist Information

Old Custom House Carnewas Tearooms

WEST CORNWALL

Newquay Tourist Information Centre

Fort Inn Bowgie Inn

The Unicorn on the Beach Portreath Arms

The Red River Inn

Lula Shack St Ives Visitor Information Centre

Lifeboat Inn

The Count House Cafe The Commercial

Old Success Inn

Lands Ends Visitor Centre

Jubilee Pool & Café

Ship Inn

The Godolphin Harbour Inn

Twisted Currant Tearoom

Housel Bay Hotel

Wavecrest Café

Five Pilchards Inn

The Paris Hotel

Life's a Beach Cafe, Maenporth

Helford River Boats

SOUTH CORNWALL

Fal River Company (Fal River Visitor Information Centre)

Chain Locker

Cakebreads Bakery

Mevagissey Tourist Information Centre

Pier House Hotel

Readymoney Beach Shop

Looe Tourist Information Centre Inn on the Shore Cremyll Ferry (Plymouth Boat Trips)

SOUTH DEVON

Plymouth Tourist Information Centre

Mount Batten Watersports Centre

The Old Mill Café

Venus Cafe, Bigbury Hope and Anchor

For more information about the South West Coast Path Passport, and how to buy your own passport visit: www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/passport/

Or go to page 50-51 where you can order a special Coast Path Passport Gift Pack.

The Venus Beach Shop

The Royal Castle Hotel

Visit Dartmouth at the Flavel Cafe

Old Market House

English Riviera Tourist Information Centre

Harbour Light

The Guard House Café

Salty Dog Kiosk

Cafe ODE

JURASSIC COAST

The Point Bar & Grill

Fifty Degrees Clothing Dukes Inn

The Mason's Arms

Seaton Tourist Information Centre

Rock Point Inn West Bay Discovery Centre

Cherries at Chesil

Wild Chesil Centre

The Etches Collection

Lulworth Visitor Centre

Swanage Information Centre

CoastPassportPath southwestcoastpath.org.uk

GLOBE TROTTERS LOVE TREKKING THE SOUTH WEST COAST PATH

To me those days on the Coast Path were some of the most precious and unforgettable moments of my life. It was a dream come true and, despite mypolyneuropathyandbackproblems, I just seemed to fly over those hills with my 10kg backpack. I felt born again… and still do. I was so happy to walk those 100km together with my daughter and we hope to come back to the Path sometime in the future.”

– Mr B from Switzerland

The South West Coast Path Association looks after one of the UK’s best-loved National Trails, traversing 630 miles of beautiful and dramatic coastline. However, the Path isn’t just loved by those of us in the UK who are lucky enough to have it on our doorstep it has also proven to be an international favourite too, drawing in support from all over the globe!

We’ve spoken to some of our fantastic international supporters to get their thoughts about life on the Path, and why our favourite trail has caught their hearts too…

Iworkasaprojectmanager andspendtoomanyhours intheoffice,sodoingthis walkwithina3monthsabbaticalwas thepresentIgavetomyselfwhenI turned50lastyear.Ihaveasplendid life,ahealthyandverywarm-hearted family,reallygoodfriendswhoIcan relyon,andagoodjob.So,Ithought,its abouttimetobegratefulandgiveback alittleandcontributetokeepingthe beautyofthePathandthecoastline.”

– Mr M from Germany

ThereasonwhyIdonated is that I am happy that the Path is very well signed so I did not have to bother and study the map or the GPS (Except for taking some shortcuts!)

Thepathitselfisverywellmaintained even in the most rugged places. And as a member of the Swiss Trails Association, I know how much work that is.”

– Ms G from Switzerland

The Association is incredibly proud and lucky to have support from a wide range of places across the world. Whether you’re based right on the Path or further afield, we love to hear your stories and the reasons that the Coast Path matters to you. If you feel able to support us, by fundraising for the Path or by sharing your experiences with us, please get in touch.

Bedruthan, CornwallPhotographer Julian Baird

PutsboroughPhotographer Ester Spears

Cousin Jack was a name given to the Cornish people who migrated to various parts of the world due to economic hardship in the 18th and 19th centuries. Skilled miners were able to find work abroad, but not in the tin and copper mines back home, and 250,000 Cornish men emigrated between 1861 and 1901 in search of a better life for their families, following the decline of the mines in Cornwall.

St Piran’s Day, on 5th March, the Sunday immediately following the event, is the national day of Cornwall, named after one of the Patron Saints of Cornwall, Saint Piran, who is also the Patron Saint of tin miners. The Cousin Jack Classic will honour and pay tribute to the brave and hardworking ancestors, seeing participants run 18 miles from the miners Chapel in St Just to The Island in St Ives, taking in the world famous mines of Crowns and Wheal Owles at Botallack, Geevor tin mine, Levant and Pendeen Lighthouse.

One of the most strenuous and remote sections of the entire Path, the event

COAST PATH FRIENDLY FOCUS: COUSIN JACK CLASSIC

The latest exciting event offering from Coast Path Friendly events organiser Bys Vyken Events is The Cousin Jack Classic, which will take place on the 4th March 2023.

organiser warns participants to ‘be prepared!’ and the difficulty level is graded as ‘extreme’.

The event is held in one of Britain’s first Environmentally Sensitive Areas where annual grant aid allows participating farmers to work the land traditionally in ancient field systems. The iconic landscape boasts wave surging beneath 300 foot cliffs, steep rocky tors, numerous coves and an overwhelming sense of space.

We would like to thank Bys Vyken Events for continuing to support the Path through their Coast Path Friendly Events. Their impressive environmental credentials include using biodegradable flexi glass instead of plastic cups at race finishes, and birch wood cutlery (or real cutlery) instead of plastic cutlery for refreshments at events, biodegradable bin bags and hazard tape, runners to carry their own reuseable cup (‘no cup, no run’!), re-use of event signage, all waste recycled including spent headtorch batteries, non littering policy (runners who drop even one

item of rubbish will receive a lifetime ban) and finally and most importantly ‘we will never work with anybody who isn’t prepared to make a change’.

For more info on the Cousin Jack Classic go to bysvykenevents.vpweb. co.uk/cousin-jack-classic

JOINING THE CPF COMMUNITY

If you know of an event organiser who isn’t displaying the Coast Path Friendly (CPF) badge on their website and supporting the Path, please let them know that they can join the scheme by visiting www.southwestcoastpath.org. uk/support-us/business-support/ friendly-events/

CPF events give a contribution of £1 per participant towards our vital work caring for this world class National Trail, protecting our valuable cultural heritage and connecting coastal communities.

Photo by Will Harper-Penrose

Photo by Ken Whalley at West Cornwall Photography

STEP UP APPEAL

The Path has more than 115,000 ft of ascent and descent. That’s nearly 22 miles of ups, to towering craggy headlands and stunning unspoilt views, and downs to secluded coves, perhaps for a refreshing dip in the sea. Completing the Path is equivalent to climbing Snowdon 48 times, Ben Nevis 26 times or Everest 4 times, an incredible feat.

The 30,000 steps that make these journeys possible and help you to access beautiful places, would not be there without your support. Each step lasts on average between 15 and 20 years but increasingly extreme weather has meant that this year we have needed to replace 800 steps already!

We use the power of our partnerships to make every £10 donation to our Step Up Appeal go even further. Each step costs £25 and if we raise £10 towards materials, our partners will install the step, saving £15. If we can raise £10,000 for our Step Up Appeal this year, we could buy the materials for 1,000 new steps and unlock £15,000 worth of in-kind support from our partners on the ground, who we work closely with to conserve and improve this world class Trail. Can you help us replace a step or two today by supporting our Step Up Appeal?

We know that this is a difficult time, and that not everyone will be in a position to donate, but if you can please donate at www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/ step-up, or scan the QR code on the back cover of the magazine.

Sinuous Stairway between Port Isaac and Port Quin North Cornwall. Photo by Andrew Chong

Photos by Rachel Hadley-Leonard

UPDATE ON OUR STORM DAMAGE APPEAL

A MOMENT OF CALM, AFTER THE STORM

We would like to thank everyone who donated to our Storm Damage Appeal this year. We were able to raise £4,465 to help repair the extensive damage caused by storms Dudley, Eunice and Franklin and the strongest winds reported in over 30 years at 122mph.

Damage to the Path was mainly in North Devon and Exmoor, with many fallen trees blocking and damaging the trail surface which lead to a 5 mile diversion being put in place. Our partners in the Exmoor National Park Authority and the National Trust worked quickly to clear the route and re-open the Path. We would like to thank everyone who donated to the Storm Damage Appeal for making that possible.

Coast Path Friendly event organisers Plymouth Coastal Runners were amongst the first to make a donation, contributing £1,285! Luke from Plymouth Coastal Runners said "As regular users of the Path through our free monthly event we put on an annual fundraiser each October to do our bit for its up

keep. A few years back a landslide put a stop to and caused a complete revamp of our event. It was the SWCPA that pushedforittogetsorted.Whenhearing about the Storm Damage Appeal, it seemed really important to channel our donation towards it. It is great to see so many areas benefitting from appeals likes this. Without them, sections of the Path effected by meteorological and coastal processes could become lost, so please make a donation if possible!"

We also received a grant towards the work from our long-term corporate supporters Athletic Brewing as part of their Two for the Trails pledge that for every product purchased, 2% of sales will be donated to protecting and restoring trails around the world.

Jonny at Athletic Brewing Co says, "It'sgreattobesupportingthecountry's longest and best loved National Trail again this year. At Athletic Brewing Co, our goal is to positively impact our customers health, fitness and happiness. By helping to ensure the South West Coast Path remains accessible and well-maintained through our Two For The Trails program, we can continue to spread that positive impact to millions in the UK."

We are looking forward to welcoming the Athletic Brewing team for a volunteering day on the Path later this year.

A moment of relative calm during Storm Bella. Widemouth Bay, North Cornwall. Photo by Rich Wiltshire

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Plymouth

Bar nstaple

acombe Lynton

Nor th Devon AONB

Cor nwall

South

Tamar Valley AONB

Combe Martin Marsland

PARK

TO BIDEFORD:

QUANTOCK HILLS

BLACKDOWN HILLS

TO

REPORT A PROBLEM:

To help our Area and Local Reps look after the Coast Path, you can report any problems via the website, under EXPLORE and Report a Problem. Or you can email us at hello@southwestcoastpath.org.uk and we’ll forward on the issue to the relevant person.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer with us then please contact hello@southwestcoastpath.org.uk and we will be back in touch when a local path rep vacancy near you becomes available.

ABBOTSBURY TO SOUTH HAVEN POINT:

Bryn Gittins

Tanith Tansey

not to scale,

East Devon AONB

The Jurassic Coast

Poole SwanageWeymouth

of Portland

Lyme Regis Exmouth

Dar tmouth

Minehead

Exeter Devon ONB

Dor set AONB

Starcross

South Haven PointDARTMOOR NATIONAL

PARK

Chris Leigh

Ken Carter, Mark Walker, Bill Lawrence

ERME

Tino

Winder

Margaret Brocklehurst,

Gibbs

Roger

Martin Smith,

David Witham,

Ponchaud,

Geoff Garfield

Fisher,

& Sandra Berry, Maria Gray,

FOCUS ON

Name: Paul & Sandra Berry

Volunteer role: Local reps for Minehead to Bideford

Tell us a little bit about yourselves and your relationship with the Coast Path?

When we were first married in 1982 we lived and farmed at Lee Village adjacent to the National Trust land that runs along the cliffs on the North Devon coast. While Sandra worked in the banking industry I was busy on the farm. We would occasionally see people walking along the Path whilst working. Some of the sunsets on a beautiful summer evening would be breathtaking and on other days, in the winter, I would be at the top of the farm leaning into a gale force wind streaming in off the Atlantic and would have to turn my head to one side to take a breath. So we have experienced the coast in all its moods.

How much of the SWCP have you walked and why do you volunteer?

In 2005 we moved the farming business to an easier farming environment and that is what ignited the spark of why don’t we walk the Coast Path. Looking for some information we came across the SWCP and were encouraged by a very enthusiastic Eric Wallace to join for a princely sum of £12.50 for joint membership and we could purchase some Path Descriptions to guide and inform us on our way. I think we had about six Path Descriptions to start with, thinking we would give this a try but that a farmer and a banker wouldn’t enjoy walking too much! How wrong can you be! 51 Path Descriptions and 5 years later we had completed the 630 miles. Volunteering as Local Path Reps seemed a very fitting thing to do having so enjoyed our time on the path. In a very small way we could help to keep

this wonderful adventurous trail accessible for generations to come.

What is special about the section of Path you look after?

Like so much of the Coast Path, our section from Combe Martin to Woolacombe has so much variety. From the start at Combe Martin village marking the edge of Exmoor and onto Watermouth Cove, a completely natural sheltered harbour. As you rise away from the harbour keep a quiet lookout for a pair of peregrine falcons. On leaving Hele you will have one of those notorious Coast Path climbs to the top of Hillsborough. Be sure to take a moment at the top to take in the views. Ilfracombe has a picturesque working harbour. Be sure to walk the official path the seaward side of Capstone. On the old coast road you can enjoy the magnificent views of Lundy Island and if the weather is good you can see the lighthouses on the island. When we lived at Lee it was a picture postcard little cove with a thriving hotel and two delightful cream tea gardens but now the hotel is a derelict, neglected eyesore caught up in an interminable triangle of bickering planners, developers and residents.

The rhythmic ups and downs then take you to Bull Point Lighthouse and beyond here keep a special look out for seals basking on the rocks. We save the best until last on our walk rounding the headland of Morte Point, which is so exposed to the elements that nothing can grow more than a few millimetres high. Then finally the full panoramic view of Woolacombe Sands appears, 2 miles of beautiful golden sand and all

the fun and joy that brings to so many families and not a highrise building anywhere.

Do you enjoy volunteering together on the Path and what are the rewards and challenges?

We were invited along to a meeting at the time the SWCPA were looking for some path survey volunteers. We went along and the lady that was surveying our stretch was wanting to step down, so a cup of tea and a biscuit later and we are the new path reps!

One of the most rewarding things is the annual get together with the other local reps for the initial 115 miles of the path. Not only has it upgraded to a cup of tea and a sandwich now but we are very fortunate to have very good representatives from Devon Highways and the National Trust who come along and engage in a two way conversation about repairs and replacements that need carrying out. From our point of view, seeing these survey suggestions turned into Path improvements is very rewarding. Our section of Path is very fortunate that is sits on top of some hard tide resilient cliffs so Path erosion isn’t a problem but one challenge is maintaining the hundreds of steps that make up the Path on this stretch.

Why do you think people should help to protect the Coast Path?

There is something very special in being able to walk what is some of the original pathways connecting the coastal towns, villages and hamlets. The peace and beauty that surrounds you is so restorative. This is certainly worth looking after for everyone’s enjoyment.

COMPLETERS

We have received many completer stories and it's been lovely to read the many journeys that have taken place along the Path over the past few months. We hope you enjoy the stories that have been shared with us.

Stuart Henshaw, Oxford Barbara & John Hallett, Wimborne

John and I started the Coast Path April 1994, walking the whole of the Dorset coast in 10 days.

We just enjoyed walking and with the sea beside us, it was so refreshing. We have family in Devon so with their help, walked the Devon coast. The Somerset bit and North Devon was quite different scenery. We were at Hartland Point when gales were blowing and we could hardly stand! There we used buses quite a bit and also in Cornwall, when the buses were very good.

The wettest walk was Combe Martin where we got soaked! I think Cornwall was our favourite scenery, lots of little coves and beautiful beaches. We walked mainly in spring and autumn holidays.

In all we took about 15 years to complete. My top tip would be not to rush and always look back. We mainly used hotels and would walk either side and back or bus and car always leaving the car at the end so no rush!

South West Peninsular Coast Footpath (South West Way) 1978

Although nothing could detract from the feeling of accomplishment on entering Kirk Yetholm, research was soon underway to discover more about a longer footpath, the ‘South West Peninsular Coastal Footpath’ or South West Way’.

A wet, drizzly August morning 1978 in Minehead. The path of over 500 miles was fragmentary and incomplete. Mile followed mile watching distance pass in three Letts Guidebooks. A different style to Wainwright’s Pennine Way Companion, invaluable just the same.

I was 22 and my reason for exploring long distance footpaths was that I had plans to travel further afield, to live and work in different countries. How could I relate to being abroad without having at least some detailed, intimate, knowledge and experience of my own country, its people, its traditions, its geography.

The memories from all those years ago? Long chats with Lighthouse keepers who would soon be surplus to requirements. A magic evening at the Minack Theatre, art deco Burgh Island, Pilchard Inn, wading rivers, one-man ferries, stepping on an adder near Porthglaze, fishermen repairing nets, tiers of lobster pots, being lulled to sleep by the rhythmic waves below the tent.

A long last look back. A mixed bag of feelings after 41 days and 545 miles. Sad to realize the next day would not be spent high on cliff tops but sadness balanced by satisfaction at having completed the country’s longest footpath.

Jennifer Steele, Torrington

Soon after retirement, I set out to fulfil an ambition I’d held since buying a hotel on the SWCP – to walk one of the greatest long-distance paths on the planet. So my friend Barbara & I and my sprocker spaniels, first Crumble & then Holly began the adventure of a lifetime.

Taking 70 days over 5 years, we generally walked 2 days at a time using cars, buses, taxis and ferries. We were blessed with incredible weather (only getting really wet on 3 occasions) and walked around some of the most breath-taking scenery. We enjoyed

pretty much every minute, (only going properly wrong once), had picnics in stunning locations, paddled a lot, stayed in some great accommodation, ate lots of ice cream and met folk from all over the world.

As Covid has proved, walking the path is great for our physical, mental and spiritual health ass well as for the economy of the South West. We decided that if each person we knew sponsored us a penny per mile i.e £6.30 we would raise our target of £630. We raised over £1,000.

We reached Poole in October, paddling the last 2 miles in glorious autumn sunshine. Can’t believe how much we are missing the path – hopefully enough to turn around and walk back!

Mike & Joan Long, Barnstaple

Joan Long 1948-2021

Over the years we walked, re-walked and walked the many sections of SWCP. North Devon was on our doorstep for days out, weekends away or weeks away on holiday. So much of it fitted in with walks we were doing for Ramblers as well. Good in all seasons and weathers but particularly good in the Spring and Autumn when the colours can be so vibrant everywhere, as well as the temperatures being more agreeable especially when carrying the world on your back.

It didn’t matter whether we did 3,5 or 10+ miles a day, it was about enjoying the Path. It had never been our intention to claim a certificate for our efforts, our rewards were always another day on the way!

I think that to enjoy the path and all it has to offer, you need to be prepared to linger longer in places. I will always remember walking into Charlestown for our B&B and discovering all that the place had to offer. We managed to re-schedule our next couple of nights B&B so we could stay there a further day to take in all the history and explore the unique gravity gated harbour. It’s why we re-visited so many places over the years to really appreciate them.

But since Joan (aRamblersmemberandvolunteerfor 44years) passed away after a short illness (notCovid related) in 2021, I thought a certificate would be a welcome addition to her “Memory Chest” so that when somebody opens it in the future, they will know more about what she did in life.

Alan Peace, Wolverhampton

Never Say “Never Again”

In July 2021 I back packed the SWCP the normal way from Minehead to South Haven Point in 51 days.

As a 75-year-old at the time, even though I have climbed and trekked for over 60 years, that was hard but it raised over £5,000 for Cancer Research UK so was well worth the effort. Once I’d recovered from that adventure, I began to think it could be interesting to do it in reverse. (I didn’t tell my wife!) Eventually I decided that it was feasible having taken great care to ensure I had a clear eight week “window” of no talks to give to groups. I then had to confess what was in my mind to my wife although she already had a strong suspicion that something was afoot. The walk, in reverse, changes the whole trek as even though it is over the same ground you see it all from a different perspective.

Best part of the adventure though was meeting some fascinating people including “Fergal the Mergal” and his didgeridoo for the second time and who I’m sure many other Coast Path walkers will have met. Also, the wonderful swathes of wild garlic, carpets of bluebells and paths lined with bright yellow gorse. This trip took 49 days starting on 21st April and has raised even more for CRUK.

Christine & Peter Lane, Burnaston

As a family we’ve always enjoyed holidays in Devon and Cornwall, walking short sections of the Coast Path. We started holidaying by ourselves and in 2001 decided that it would be wonderful to walk the whole path.

Completing a few sections in random order each year has allowed us to appreciate the beauty of the whole route.

We have many memories to look back on including: -

• Pete completely underestimating the mileage from Bude to Hartland Quay!

• Walking from Port Isaac to Tintagel in torrential rain.

• No ice cream left in any shops at Watergate Bay!

• Walking the cliff path from Carbis Bay to St Ives in the dark.

• Pete getting the tide times wrong crossing the Gannel.

• Café at Portholland only opened in fine weather!

• Taking seven hours to walk the first six miles from Polruan to Looe.

If we had to choose a favourite section it would be the North Cornwall coast.

Due to the difficulty in accessing the military ranges near Lulworth we kept delaying this section, as we thought this may be a tedious walk. How wrong we were, as the terrain was challenging and the scenery stunning!

We finally completed September 2021, walking from Weymouth to Lulworth Cove. We nearly didn’t make it because on reaching an extremely steep decent to Durdle Door, a friend we were walking with stated “I’m not going down there!” Fortunately, with a helping hand, we made it safely and celebrated a fabulous achievement.

Sarah Bradwell, Janet Escott, Jeanette Chalmers

The Trecking Trio….. Walking The SWCP for LOROS

After the isolation of the lockdowns in 2020 we decided to go ahead and plan our longest walk yet. Consulting the guide books, we split the route between the three of us, and set about booking our B&B’s. Jinny made a spreadsheet, 59 days away, 52 days walking.

In January 2021 serious training began, we had until September.

We set up our fund-raising page: www.justgiving.com/campaign/ southwestcoastpathtrek LOROS

We met through walking other long-distance paths for LOROS (Leicester and Rutland Hospice)

We were excited, scared, worried but determined knowing this walk was going to test us, physically and mentally, we were right.

We found the tough North Devon section difficult; it was hot, humid weather and the miles seemed to last for ever despite our GPS. We developed a taste for cool Cider!

As we adjusted our mindsets, gradually the days got easier.

We found the beautiful views & stunning coastline uplifting and were fascinated by the geology and wildlife. We all had our favourite parts.

Amazingly we only needed full waterproofs on seven days. The weather was on our side.

All the accommodation bookings worked perfectly well, some standards were above and beyond expectations, few left a lot to be desired.

We met many interesting people along the way, most walking sections of the path, one couple were walking the whole route, we especially enjoyed sharing stories with them.

Injuries were suffered, but thankfully no lasting complaints.

We are all proud to have challenged ourselves in this way.

Are we still friends? Very much so, we’re planning our next walk, ten days this time!

Keith Bailey, Haslemere

I semi-retired in Spring 2016. One of my aspirations in retirement was to walk the Jurassic coast and on starting to research my plan, I discovered the SW Coast Path.

I embarked on my first walk on 4 April 2016. 6 years (COVID impacted) and 64 individual daily walks later, I completed my last walk on the 28 April 2022. The vast majority of my walks have been solo and I have not completed the path in any particular sequence.

This journey has genuinely been one of the most rewarding (and challenging) things I have done in my 64 years. The stunning scenery and coastline - so much of which you would never see by being a regular tourist - is simply beautiful.

My message to anyone thinking of walking on the path is to do it - you will not regret your decision. Make sure you have the necessary fitness, the right clothing and most importantly strong and comfortable footwear. The benefits of finding the time for yourself to escape from whatever your day to day is, are immense.

Finally, a huge thank you to all at the SW Coast Path Organisation, who make this all possible.

Gary & Anne Malpas, Bringhurst

We’d been to the South West so much that we just had to walk the Coast Path and now we’ve done it!

It took us 58 days over a 10-year period, we only had 3 - 4 days where were got soaked, and can count on less than two hands how many times we had a wet day where we had to change into coats but the rain didn’t last long, not bad at all.

I wanted to compare our mileage and time out to see how it compared to the SWCPA data, the estimated time is just over 300 hours our total was a tad over 323 hours.

However, if you’re thinking of walking it all, just remember all those extra miles you’ll end up doing; we’d go to the end of scenic points, down to beaches for a swim and all the travelling back and forth to accommodation, we did a total of just over 785 miles in total, so be prepared!

Would we do it again? In a heartbeat. We almost turned round at the end as we met someone just starting from Poole, that made us very jealous. If you’re thinking of doing it, my advice is just do it.

Martin Cypher, Corfe Mullen

As first lockdown ended, I started at Minehead July 2020 over 57 days, split across 12 segments ending 21/11/21.

Walking interspersed with various lockdowns.

My abundant memory was the incredible array of wonderful terrain and spectacular views.

Walking the path over various months showed how different this can be in the changing seasons. I met so many people being enriched by walking the path, with a common goal of completing in various ways.

Such wonderful scenery brought me into touch with the amazing world we live in. How lucky we are to have such a fantastic coastline path with so much variety. Butterflies and Spring Flowers just some of many highlights. It reinforced my love for life and the great outdoors - I even changed my diet to vegetarian - wanting to do something towards sustaining our planet. The ruggedness of the West Cornwall section was my favouriteso many unspoiled beautiful coves and beaches.

I understand why the SWCP is rated so highly amongst the best walks in the world. It’s tough and needs respect. However, there are so many lovely short-day walks, that many sections can be enjoyed even if you don’t want to do all 630 miles!

Tim & Barbara Roberts, Guildford

We completed the SWCP on 28 September 2021 with a bottle of pink fizz on the dunes at South Haven Point after 6 years, walking for 69 days on 11 separate visits.

The Path became an important part of our life, planning the routes, trying to keep our walking miles going between visits and then the joy (mostly), of walking through such beautiful places.

We had blue sky days above Heddon's Mouth, around the Lizard and on the Weymouth to Lulworth rollercoaster; horizontal wind and rain round Appledore and a low cloud, no view

day over Golden Cap but there were many more good weather walking days than not.

April 2017 saw the most beautiful Spring flower week of the whole walk and the birds played their part - several Chough sightings, nesting Fulmars and singing Whitethroats and Skylarks.

Linda and Mike from Walk The Trail were amazing in helping plan out routes and booking our accommodation and the standard of B&Bs and pubs was very high. Luggage Transfer were faultless in moving our bags between places.

It was an emotional finish at South Haven Point after such a great experience and we have loved spending time together in such beautiful places and creating so many great memories!

Sue & John Ivey, Little Cheverell

To celebrate our Golden Wedding Anniversary in August 2020, we decided to walk the South West Coast Path. Instead of a party, we invited friends and family to join us along the way, and each time this happened we would toast the event with prosecco.

We began our challenge in February 2020 with an itinerary which would complete the 630 miles in September 2020. But we all know what happened next! The virus struck and three lock downs interrupted our progress.

A memorable moment was walking into Port Isaac on 22 August 2020, which was our actual anniversary and staying at the Slipway Hotel, which is where we honeymooned in 1970!

Three lockdowns later plus a delay due to me dislocating my shoulder in October 2021, we finally completed the walk from Swanage to South Haven Point on Saturday 21 May.

There were 31 friends and family who joined us at various points along the way, to suit their walking abilities. 18 of us walked from Swanage, including 4 grandsons.

In total, we walked on 70 days, it’s been amazing and we’re very proud of our achievement, not bad for two oldies in their seventies!!

Jenny Davidson, Bridgwater

I started on the SWCP 3 January 2017 where, in my mind, I would complete various sections of the route over the forthcoming year and I’d be a ‘Completer’ in no time. How wrong could I be?

I set off from Minehead on a cold, fine day and reached Porlock Weir without drama. Then life got in the way –deaths, births, marriages and I didn’t return to Porlock Weir until June 2018. By then I was raring to go, using our touring caravan as a base, and my lovely husband as ‘transport manager’. I got as far as Lizard Point. For some reason, 2019 was a bit of a barren year but I managed to ‘plug’ a couple of gaps and then the first lockdown came. By the time we emerged, returning to the path seemed even more poignant and it became important to savour every minute of every mile (whether up or down – steps or no steps!).

Throughout the next couple of years, the miles started getting eaten up until finally, on 28 April 2022, I set out from Durlston Head in glorious sunshine aiming for South Haven Point. It was a bittersweet moment, and I could sense that as I walked along the beach towards the ‘finish line’, that I was going slower because, now that it was here, I didn’t want the adventure to finish. I turned the corner, saw the beautiful steel sculpture, and felt a tremendous sense of achievement. As I posed for my photo, I asked myself the perennial question –‘Shall I turn round and walk back to Minehead?’

Martin & Pauline Johnson, Stockport

We’ve spent holidays in the South West, but on retiring, we took up walking and joined a club meeting new friends. Two such friends said they’d completed the SWCP in the 1990’s. This got us thinking to see different parts we hadn’t seen before. How right we were!

With some trepidation, as we were both unaccustomed to walking several days at a time of 12 - 18 miles a day, we decided to investigate. We found ourselves a travel company (Walk the Trail) and worked out our first trip in May 2018 Minehead to Westward Ho!.

It was a logistical exercise to arrange but the company dealt with the greater part of it. A learning point from the trip, was to arrange evening meals beforehand, don’t arrive at places ‘on-spec’.

Between May 2018 and May 2022, a total of 47 days fantastic walking. Total mileage of 690 with diversions and detours. Different scenery at every turn and lots to marvel at. We liked it so much we’re doing our favourite bits again, which is just about all of it!

No.1 tip: get travel agents to book your accommodation and transport your luggage taking their advice about the itinerary. Their expertise is priceless.

Finally, our grateful thanks to all who work to maintain the path in such good condition.

David Halliwell, Dorchester

I first decided to walk the path in its entirety after walking some of it locally in Dorset, in practice for a Yorkshire 3 Peaks charity event. I’ve always loved walking but never really considered or knew too much about the SWCP until then.

It took me roughly two years to complete it doing day trips, fitting it in between work and family.

It’s hard to say what the best thing about walking the path is, but I love the landscape and tranquillity. The time to think and just the sheer adventure of not knowing what was around the next headland. I feel slightly bereft now if I’m honest. I wish I could erase my memory and explore it all over again.

My best advice would be to take your time and remember to stop and look back every now and then. Oh, and take the time to get the right socks and boots combination. Comfy feet are everything!

How does it feel to have completed it? A feeling of pride and of achievement. To think that my little legs have carried me from Minehead to Poole still amazes me when I think about it.

Clare Marshall, Worthing

I have always wanted to walk the whole SWCP after walking sections with friends, so when work started an extended leave scheme it seemed the perfect opportunity. I started my walk from home, (Worthing) following the coast to Poole as walking to Minehead seemed even crazier! It took me 43 days, 36 being on the SWCP. I absolutely loved being outdoors with a personal highlight being a young badger walking up to me near St Mawes.

I met many kind people along the way, from the lady waiting to point out the path (when it was difficult to see), being lent a seat when camping so I could eat dinner in comfort, friends and family letting me stay and washing my clothes. To the various campsite owners letting me stay in a camping pod because of heavy rain, giving me extra shower tokens when I looked in need! to lending me their kettle on a cold, rainy, windy evening. I also spoke to many lovely coastal path walkers along the way.

I feel an immense sense of achievement and the memories of my adventure will keep me smiling forever. A big thank you to the SWCPA for maintaining the path.

Paul Sharpe, Derby

On the right path. I’ve done the whole 630 miles –in 45 days / 15 years.

We’d walked from Padstow to Coverack and I really wanted to walk the whole path, but it was getting more difficult logistically.

The game changer was being made redundant after 37 years.

Not ideal, it made me depressed, but it offered me a chance to walk the path in one go. 3 months planning and training gave me a new focus. They say walking improves your mental health, but how?

• Exercise - You lose weight and stamina improves.

• Walking encourages your brain to release endorphins

• Fresh clean sea air and oxygen rich woodlands

• Sunshine - When your skin is exposed to sunlight, it makes vitamin D from cholesterol

• Conversation - it gets you talking, asking directions and sharing path knowledge

• The scenery - changes every day

• Connecting with nature – amazing Flora and Fauna

• Trip hazard. Looking where you’re walking means no time to dwell on negative thoughts.

• Endurance achievement

• Raising money for the SWCPA gave the walk another dimension

• Social media network with #630miles

Tips - Two walking poles is a must.

The best thing - just being on the path, it’s so invigorating.

Look ahead a little, you will see more wildlife.

Just do it, perhaps not all in one go. Enjoy it above all.

Proud and lucky to have completed it, but a little sad it’s over.

My top 3 are:

• St Ives to Zennor

• Salcombe to Torcross

• Lulworth to Kimmeridge

Natasha Challoner, Thame & Tracy Benford, Salisbury

In 2013 we took a holiday in St Ives and walked to Penzance. A few years later we decided to take on the SWCP, not quite realising what a mammoth task was ahead of us.

In 2016 we began our adventure in Minehead and in 2022, finished it at the Erme estuary. We had reached Poole Harbour in October 2021, but due to lockdown had a small section around Plymouth not completed. We mainly walked each section in order. 3 storms and a pandemic couldn't stop us.

Highlights for us were Porlock beach and its ghostly trees, tin mines in Poldark country, sighting choughs and the odd grey seal (or buoy). We almost got a bit part in ' Fisherman’s friends', in Port Isaac. The completion of the peaks of Great Hangman and Golden Cap are particular achievements.

The best thing of all was spending time with my friend, it has brought us closer. If anyone is thinking of walking the coast path I would say just give it a go, you have nothing to lose & you may get hooked too!

Bob Sykes, Paington

I had never done any long-distance walking prior to the onset of COVID 19, but after the forced closure of my gym, I started walking locally. I soon expanded my walking horizons and then started walking sections of the SWCP near my home in South Devon.

I completed the path on 16th June 2022 with the section from Pendeen Watch to Sennen Cove. I managed to do the whole path as “bus-walks” and I thank all my bus drivers for ensuring that I got off at the right stops!

The highlights of the walk were so numerous that I mention only three; seeing my first adder between Coverack and Lizard Point, the living graveyard at St Uny’s, Lelant where the spring flowers were in bloom and all were just below the height of the celtic crosses, giving the place a surreal feeling, and walking the section from Hartland Quay to Bude, a challenging section made easier by the excellent condition of the path.

David Aylmore, Newton Abbot

Having lived for many years in both North & South Devon, I had walked many individual sections of the SWCP. But in 2021, I decided that it would be good to walk the whole path. Whilst I couldn’t spare the time to do a through walk, I wanted to complete it within 6 months, so started in Minehead on 1 June and completed on 6th December.

For several sections I was supported by my wife who acted as a taxi service to and from our camper van or when in South Devon, to our home in Newton Abbot. I backpacked other sections for 7-10 days at a time and used campsites, B&B’s and on a few occasions, wild camped.

My advice to anyone planning to walk the path is ‘take your time and enjoy the journey’. The memories that have stayed with me are times spent at rest stops, and characters I met along the way. I realise I was lucky to live in the S. West so was able to be flexible, but if you set mind on a tight time schedule then I fear you may miss out on these experiences.

BUT, whatever your plan – just do it. You’ll not regret it.

Philp Loat, Exmouth

Coast Path Journey 06/05/201814/06/2022

I’ve trekked magical destinations around the world, but none beats my South West Coast Path adventure. I began at Minehead in May 2018 intending to walk the path in two-week sections for four consecutive years, but Covid lockdowns interrupted my plans in 2020.

So, a little later than anticipated, I walked to South Haven Point on a gloriously sunny June afternoon this year and soaked my aching feet in the cool sea water. I walked the path alone, but not lonely, pitching up at 45 campsites along the way and hiking past a surprising number of golf courses!

The coast path is calming even though the weather may not always be so. The sea and distant horizon was always on my right, which I found reassuring. I loved looking behind at the far-off headland and think: Have I really walked all that way in three days? Then turn my head and look toward another head land and wonder how long it’d take me to get there.

I feel immense satisfaction at having completed the 630 miles and whether you do it slowly or quickly, with heavy packs or lighter loads, it remains a great achievement. It gives time to think, observe and on occasion, be thankful for the kindness of strangers. The longer I stayed on the path, the more I felt it had become my home and am thankful that I remain geographically close to it.

David Hobbs, Altrincham

Having completed the Path in 2017 by walking sections over several years, it became my ambition to complete it in one hit.

So I set off from Minehead on 13 May this year and arrived at South Haven Point at 12 noon on 26 June. 45 amazing days, 23 days camping and 22 staying in pubs, B&B’s or hotels. 45 days of sensory overload including seeing carpets of bluebells on the way to Porlock, watching seals at

Woolacombe, the constant sight and sound of the sea and the dramatic and forever changing cliff scenery often intensified by moody changes in the weather.

However, a journey is not just about what you see and do but also about the people you meet, and I was blessed to meet some amazing kindred spirits. Embrace the Path and you will be rewarded in so many ways and when you have completed your journey you

will just want to do it all again – as I plan to do in 2024 but in reverse direction – I can’t wait to be out there again.

Chris & Anthea Collard, Chesterfield

Unlike many heroes, heroines, ath letes & professional walkers who’ve completed the path in a few weeks, months or couple of years, it has taken us 19 years to achieve our ambition. Is this a new record? But we’ve done it with feelings of jubilation, but sad that this the end of an era - the SWCP has been part of our lives for a long time. If we were younger, we’d walk the path all over again!

We started in Minehead in 2003 and finished 2022, which was Chris’s 72nd birthday. For many years we didn’t walk the SWCP, but ventured abroad, and most of our walking was in Derbyshire or Yorkshire.

Five years ago, bearing in mind our increasing ages, we decided we needed to get on and we started coming down to the South West twice a year. On several occasions we only managed four days out of seven, because of bad weather. It was always our intention to enjoy the walking and for it never to become an endurance test; but like thousands of walkers, we were caught out by rainstorms on more than one occasion!

We’ve stayed in fabulous B&B’s and eaten in fabulous pubs. We’ve been given gracious hospitality by friends in Penzance & Torquay and have met some great new friends in a B&B in

Looe, who since meeting us have embarked on the SWCP themselves and have walked several sections with us!

It has been the most wonderful experience that we can’t recommend too highly. Long live the SWCP and our grateful thanks to everyone who’s made this possible.

I have been wanting to walk the complete SWCP for several years, but it wasn’t until this year when I retired at 65 that I had the time to do it.

It took 45 walking days: I walked six days a week and took every Sunday off. I couldn’t have done it without my wife’s support: she drove our small campervan and picked me up at the end of each afternoon. There were four significant diversions, so I reckon it was probably about 650 miles.

I was fortunate with the weather as the worst I had was showers, but sometimes there was a cold head wind on the north coast of Devon. I loved the variety on the path, the colours of the sea and meeting so many interesting people.

Arriving at South Haven Point was memorable, especially as so many family and friends surprised me by being there. To anybody reading this and thinking about walking the whole path…go for it: it will provide a lifetime of memories.

Daughter Jo and l completed the walk in Minehead earlier this year. It has taken us some 10 years to achieve this with regular 3 and 4 day walks once or twice a year.

We have managed with a mix of bed and breakfasts and self-catering, our cars, public transport (when available) and a number of taxis.

A great experience which we will treasure for a long time. So many wonderful vistas, both seaward and inland. The gorse and wildflowers are a wonderful welcome to Spring in April, our favourite month to walk.

We can recommend and encourage everyone to turn to the Path for an experience and a benefit, as it is often possible to achieve more than one can envisage and enjoy. I am 85 and suffer from COPD but nothing was going to stop my completing the walk of a lifetime. We are sure that we will return before too long.

John Parker, Romsey

Philip Payze & Daughter, Jo

SHOP AND SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

All products below are available in our online shop, along with a varied selection of guides, maps, clothing and gifts for you to purchase and show your support for our beautiful Coast Path. Simply visit www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/shop or call us on 01752 896237 to place your order.

All UKitemsinclude PackagingPostage&

PHOTOGRAPHIC CHRISTMAS CARDS - £7.00

Our 8-pack Christmas cards contain 8 different delightful scenes from around the Coast Path. The wording inside reads: 'Wishing You A Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year'. Size 148mm x 148mm - Envelopes included.

PASSPORT GIFT PACK - £9.95

OAK FINGER POSTSFROM £22.00

These beautifully locally crafted, solid oak finger posts come in two sizes (Small: 255mm x 50mm x 25mm or Large: 500mm x 130mm x 25mm). Featuring the iconic National Trail acorn and the wording 'South West Coast Path Minehead - Poole 630 Miles', these posts can also be personalised to make an extra special gift.

DOUBLE SIDED WOOD ROUNDEL - £5.00

Show your support for the Path and Association with our new, eco-friendly, waterproof, wooden Roundel. Complete with a hole to thread onto a lanyard or hang from your rucksack.

*Please note - the roundel does not come with a lanyard or string.

Get out and explore with the Passport Gift Pack, perfect given as a gift or why not treat yourself. The pack contains:

• Passport - to collect ‘hand crafted’ stamps reflecting the unique nature of each section

• Wooden Roundel

• Branded Wood Pen

Remember, it costs as little as £27.50 per year to become a member of the association and you will receive the latest edition of the Complete Guide to the South West Coast Path absolutely FREE along with discounts to various retailers and this magazine so tell you’re your friends and family and together we can support our unique National trail! Visit www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/become-a-member or contact us on hello@southwestcoastpath.org.uk or 01752 896237 for more information

ORDER FORM

We’ve created some Member Offers, so simply use the coupon codes below on our online shop www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/shop or fill in the form below and send it to:

South West Coast Path Association, Unit 11, Residence 2, Royal William Yard, Plymouth PL1 3RP.

Don’t forget to fill in your contact details, especially your phone number in case we need to contact you.

Member prices will be applicable until the last day for Christmas orders, 16th December 2022. Postage cannot be guaranteed by a certain date.

Product Name

Black & White Christmas Cards

Black & White Anna Ventura Christmas cards Pack of 8. Size 15x10.5cm

Boot Bag Sturdy and easy to sponge clean. Approx 33cm long x 26cm high x 26cm wide

Beanie Hat with embroidered logo

Airforce blue: Bottle Green: Burgundy: Classic Red: French Navy: Fuchsia: Heather Grey: Mint £12.00 £9.60

2022 Pin Badge Enamel Pin Badge £3.50 £3.00

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please visit our shop: www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/shop or call us on 01752 896237 to place your order.

Product Name

Postage & Packaging

Europe

Rest of the world

I would like to order: Why not give the gift of membership to a loved one for as little as £27.50, sign up online at www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/gift-membership or call us on 01752 896237

I enclose my cheque for £ made payable to South West Coast Path Association

Please debit my: Visa

number: / / / / Expiry date: / / Security number: / / (Last 3 digits on reverse of the card)

WITH

DEVON HAMPERS –A TASTE OF THE SOUTH WEST

Leave A Legacy

Path holds many treasured memories of our loved ones and the journeys we have taken together through life. Leaving a gift in your Will ensures that the journey continues after you’ve gone, and helps our vital work in ensuring that the Path continues to be a safe, accessible and special place for your loved ones to remember you.

you’re able, please consider the Association when making plans for your legacy, and trust that we will use any donation, however small or large, to champion and protect this unique 630-mile Trail for years to come.

out more about leaving a gift in your Will visit

by Shaun