Jim's Memorial Walk

To celebrate the life and voluntary work of Jim Robinson, who died in January, a walk round the Wychert Way, which is now almost stile-free thanks to Jim's efforts, was held on Saturday 3rd August, two days after what would have been Jim's 73rd birthday.

Brian Bowman, the main organiser, reports that there were about 75 walkers — from Haddenham Village Society, Haddenham Safe Walking and Cycling Group, Aylesbury Ramblers, Haddenham Beer Festivals Trust, other local organisations with which Jim had been closely involved, and Le Mans friends.

Many completed the entire 12.8 mile walk, with a stop for a welcome rest and a barbecue lunch, prepared and served by Jim's niece Steph, Kirsty Towersey and Alison Morris, at the Seven Stars pub in Dinton.

Some took part in just the first 7.2 mile leg of the walk from Church End, Haddenham, via Notley, Chearsley and Cuddington to Dinton, while others did the second 5.6 mile leg from Dinton via Ford, Aston Sandford and Kingsey, and back to Haddenham.

In preparation for the walk, clearing of vegetation etc along the route was carried out by Robyn Thorogood and Brian from Haddenham, and former Haddenham resident Angus Galbraith from Long Crendon; a task which took two days to complete.

The walk leaders were Robyn, Angus and Brian, who each led a group of about 20, to ensure that crossing the busy A418 and other roads, plus railway lines, was accomplished safely. Back markers were Neil Dury, Peter and Diana Gulland and Dan Sullivan.

Zoe Bowman and Chris Thorogood manned the water and biscuit stops, very welcome refreshments on quite a warm day. They also registered the walkers at Church End.

Brian said afterwards "The turnout was a magnificent tribute to Jim; everyone seemed to enjoy the walk and the feedback has been very generous".

Two of the sub-group of walkers are pictured — unfortunately the first sub-group began their walk before the schedule start time and ahead of the photographer's arrival!