2025 Walking Group
Wednesday 3rd September 2025
The walk from the Bell Inn at Gumley was arranged by Patrick Holligan and the party comprised Patrick Holligan, David Mitchell, David Caines, Richard Ward and Martin Waddington.
The weather forecast was for rain during the morning, and as it was overcast and threatening, we took the precaution of wearing waterproofs and also carrying umbrellas. David M carried a splendid ‘cover all’ golf umbrella, clearly expecting worse to come.
We walked downhill from the pub car park, taking a right fork at the road junction along the minor road towards Laughton. We stopped at a clearly marked footpath sign towards Gumley Hall, but having checked our route, decided to continue along the road, rather than across the field route, which would have been both heavy and taxing, even at that early stage of the walk.
Passing a field entrance we came across two farmers by a large tractor, who appeared to be operating some survey machinery. As we progressed Patrick was searching for a footpath sign which would have cut across open countryside towards Laughton. Eventually we reached the junction of the road leading to Laughton, and a detailed scrutiny of the route map then followed. At the same time we were confronted by two large horses and riders crossing toward us. Having wished us an enjoyable walk they continued along the road and allowed us to decide that our route towards Laughton would be suited by walking along the road, rather than across fields.
The walk here was pleasant and interesting. We met further horse riders coming toward us and giving more friendly greetings, before arriving at the pretty village of Laughton. Here we found a very welcome, but rather damp seat with a large overhanging tree behind us. As the seat was only big enough to seat three of us, we took it in turns to share it, (starting with the oldest first) and enjoyed a welcome cup of coffee and biscuits kindly provided by Patrick.
Suitably refreshed, we set off from our seat and walked out of the village along the road to Gumley. On reaching the outskirts of Laughton we came across a large Tesla car on the roadside, with its rear jacked up and the wheel missing. There was no sign of the car owner, and we were left wondering both what had caused the mishap and how long the Tesla would be out of operation.
David C. had mentioned the pristine surface of the road leading to Gumley, and as we progressed we were able to see what a smooth and fine surface it now was. The tarmac was built up and clear of any imperfections. The views across the fields were spectacular, and as we passed the cricket pitch we speculated on how many six hits would have run all the way down to the valley below.
We arrived back at the Bell by 12.15 p.m. and all agreed that the road walk was the right choice on the day. However, despite the gloomy forecast, we had enjoyed a fine and dry morning.
At lunch, we were very pleased to welcome Brian Marlow and Jim Sherlock, who had both travelled considerable distances to join us. The lunch was enjoyed by all, and we left the Bell in good spirits. We were later able to thank our good fortune for the fine morning weather, as we travelled back home to be welcomed by pouring rain.
Martin Waddington
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2025 Walking Group
Wednesday 6th August 2025
The walk was arranged by Mike Stephens, and our party comprised Mike, David Caines, Patrick Holligan, Brian Marlow, David Mitchell and Martin Waddington. We met at the car park of the Swan Inn, Braybrooke on a warm, sunny morning. Wel left at 9.30 a.m. and took a short walk through the small, attractive village on to a long, gravelled path out to the fields. We soon walked across a small bridge and noticed the dried up river bed where water would be flowing freely in the winter months. Progressing onwards we passed the entrance to Waterloo Farm Leisure, and noticed the two attractive lakes on either side of the pathway, already occupied by some keen anglers. As we continued along the pathway we were met by the occasional walker and one or two cyclists, who would acknowledge us with a wave, and continue their ride at some speed.
Mike led us to the far side of a viaduct, where he provided some welcome refreshments on a warm morning. A spot very well researched, as a comfortable wooden seat was awaiting the first of our party. Whilst enjoying the break we did notice a couple of pieces of graffiti on the viaduct, interestingly uncomplimentary of Keir Starmer. Having expressed our own views on this we set out on the next limb of the walk.
Mike had warned us that the second limb would bring some surprises, and we were not disappointed. The path led directly upwards and above the railway tunnel. This was steep climbing and needed extra care due to the sizeable tree roots which had spread across the path. We eventually reached the top in a breathless state and were greeted with fine views across the valley, looking towards Braybrooke in the far distance.
Progressing down the field and then up the far side, we reached a field where Brian was enthusiastically eyeing the well laden apple trees. From here we continued through to reach a fenced garden, where we were met by a barking dog, clearly guarding his territory from a party of weary walkers alongside his garden. A very pleasant lady in the garden chatted to us, before pointing us in the right direction to move us along. We eventually reached a fence with waymark markings, but it was not clear which side of the fence we should follow. After consulting our mobile phones, we decided to take the near side of the hedge downwards. This turned out to be the wrong side, and led us further away from our intended track. We eventually reached the corner of a pathway, and took the path to the right to get ourselves back on track for the downwards walk back into Braybrooke.
We eventually arrived back at the Swan at 12.45 p.m. for our lunch at the Swan, where we were pleased to meet both Charles Stewart and Richard Ward, who had been waiting patiently for our delayed return. We all enjoyed an excellent lunch together and agreed that the scenery and splendid weather had made this a memorable morning – enough to justify resting our weary legs once we reached home.
Martin Waddington
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Wyvern Probus Walk Report 2nd July 2025
Following several days of extremely hot weather Wednesday morning was cloudy, dull, cool and with a faint drizzle in the air. This was the scene as Chris Mitchell, Mike Stephens, Patrick Holligan, Gordon Squires, Brian Marlow and Richard Ward met on the car park of the Dog and Gun in Keyham for the July Walk.
We set of promptly at 10.00 am for a walk that turned out to be 4.7 mile in length Walking down Snows Lane we soon turned off and onto of on to a recently built footpath/bridleway through a very smart gate. (Chris assured us that he had arranged this new footway especially for our walk!!) We were soon into open countryside making a steady ascent with lovely open views over the Leicestershire countryside. The drizzle had abated but the temperature was well below that of recent days, that suited the walkers. Passing Keyham High Leys on our right we reached the far end of Covert Lane. We were disgusted to see that it had been used by fly tippers with piles of and bags of rubbish.
A little further on we came across a burnt-out car which had also set fire the surrounding growth including a large tree. Another sad reminder of that element of low life that bedevils society today. We continued heading south and just before reaching Redvers Farm we walked by a quite large solar farm. We wondered how often or indeed if the panels were ever cleaned. At the farm we enjoyed looking at the display of hollyhocks on the side of the path before continuing our walk to reach the A47 on the outskirts of Houghton on the Hill. We then had a three-hundred-yard walk on a path alongside the noisy A47 to reach the lane that would lead us to New Ingarsby Farm.
We reached the farm to discover that the field we next had to cross contained a large number of lively young cattle. This caused a little consternation within the group but across we went without incident. Having climbed the stile into the next field Chris produced a welcome cold drink along with some chocolate biscuits. Walking downhill through the hay field we entered another field and still going downhill reached a steep set of steps descending to the bed of the long defunct L&NER railway line. Climbing up from the old railway line we entered a somewhat scruffy field which was lying fallow. A steady uphill climb led to the edge of a wood which we skirted to continue the walk through another fallow field to reach treelined track we led us to Covert Lane. Leaving Covert Lane we joined a straight field path, heading downhill, that over the next half mile took us to the last stile which we climbed, into Snows Lane and shortly afterwards we returned to the pub for a well-earned lunch and, of course, a welcoming pint. As we sat at our table the sun once again appeared to round off what had been a pleasant and enjoyable morning and as ever in very companiable company.
Richard Ward
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LEICESTER WYVERN PROBUS WALK REPORT, Wednesday 7th May 2025
We gathered together on a fine, sunny morning at the car park of the Fox and Hounds, Tugby, for the walk organised by David Caines. The party of walkers comprised David Caines, David Mitchell, Gordon Squires, Brian Marlow, Charles Stewart, Mike Stephens and Martin Waddington.
After pre-ordering our lunch, we set out along an easy pathway, to soon have fine views across several fields. The walking was along clearly defined paths, and to our relief, clear of any stiles. Bonney was soon in fine form, challenging any willing participant to throw the large stick she found as far as possible along the path. She even charged into a stream further along to add to her powers of recovery.
We soon arrived at the Rolleston Estate, and the difference in the countryside was soon evident. The fields were well maintained, plenty of well-nourished sheep, and green fields stretching into the distance. Further along, we soon reached a peaceful and impressive lake, where we took time to look across and admire the scene.
Soon afterwards we continued along the pathway to reach a clearly marked sign, indicating a path across a heavily ploughed field. Those who were willing, decided to take the direct route, whereas our leader David, Gordon and Martin, decided to take the longer path way round the field, to meet up with the others at the waymark. Here, we stopped and David produced a refreshing coffee and biscuits, which were most welcome. David M. decided to take a lie down in the lush grass, and take a well-earned rest – much envied by us, but we decided not to try, as there were not many who could have got up again.
From here, we climbed a steep hill on the way towards Goadby. At the top, we looked back and Charles remarked that we could clearly see how the countryside was already being affected by the dry spell of weather we were experiencing.
We bypassed the village of Goadby and took the path down and up, to find ourselves back at Tugby by 12.00 noon – just in time for the opening of the bar in the pub. Waiting there, and enjoying a drink was Richard Ward.
The meal at the Fox and Hounds was excellent, and when coffees were ordered afterwards, there followed an interesting discussion over the different types of coffee which were now available.
We left at 1.45 p.m., having enjoyed our walk, conscientiously organised by David C., and an excellent lunch at the Fox and Hounds.
Martin Waddington
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Probus Walk 9th April 2025
Gordon Squires was this month’s walk organiser. Gordon had originally planned the walk, starting from the Queens Head in Billesdon, to be the Gaulby loop. When he learned that two of the walkers wanted to attend a funeral that afternoon he shortened the walk and amended the timings to accommodate the funeral attendees. Gordon had booked the table for lunch at 12.30 pm as a large party were due at 1.00 pm.
Six of us, Gordon Squires, Mike Stephens, Patrick Holligan Chris Mitchell, David Mitchell and Richard Ward met on the car park at 10.00 am. A reversal of our normal routine found us taking a coffee break prior to starting the walk. We were missing Brian Marlow who had decided, at the last minute, that as he was attending the funeral he couldn’t encompass the walk.
After a welcome coffee and biscuits we set off to take the shortened walk, the Frisby loop. It was, for early April, a superb morning, Bright sunshine in a cloudless sky although the breeze was chilly. We walked through the village to join the footpath over open fields and headed south. Eventually we joined the footpath to Frisby passed Frisby Dairy Farm and into the village. As we entered the Frisby we stopped to admire a large garden complete with ponds and a fountain in full spate. Leaving the village, we crossed the Gaulby road an took the footpath over a field of growing wheat down towards the Billesdon brook. Just before reaching the pub car park we stopped to greet the two donkeys who were grazing in the adjacent field.
Not long after noon we were soon seated at the bar and ordering our drinks and meals, David Mitchell couldn’t join us as he was going to a 1.30 pm funeral in Leicester. By 12.30 pm we were seated at our corner table being very efficiently looked after by a charming young lady who served our meals and refreshed our glasses.
At 1.00 pm the large group we had been told about began to enter the pub. It transpired that they were sixteen lady members of the Fleckney Bowls Club. One of them remarked that it was nice to see a group of gentlemen out together and enjoying their lunch. Was this an introduction? We will never know as there were no volunteers keen enough to investigate further! All in all, it was a very enjoyable walk topped off with a good lunch and great company.
Richard Ward
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Probus Walk Wednesday 5th March 2025
Unfortunately, Richard Ward’s health problems, and difficulties caring for his wife Jean, prevented him from being able to organise the March walk. Therefore a compromise was suggested by myself. As I walk every morning from home in Goadby, I welcomed the company of those fit and at a loose end to join Bonnie and myself in a gently saunter around the local fields.
Fortunately the wet and grey weeks that have characterised the past three months, appeared to have dramatically changed so we met for coffee on a bright, clear but cold morning. Mike Stephens, Gordon Squires and Patrick Holligan joined myself and Bonnie, the only female member of the walking group. We chose a permissive path through fields owned by the Noseley estate in a southerly direction crossing a stream to follow a path towards what had been Care Village. We re-crossed the stream and climbed up the bridle path towards the Goadby to Glooston road. Before reaching the road we proceeded “off-piste” to walk over several easy pasture fields to re-join the road back to Goadby.
Here we met with the Kibworth Ramblers, a party of 14 members half of whom were equipped with Hi-Viz jackets and appropriate first-aid packs! We were advised that this was a requirement of the group when negotiating any roadways. Not something that Probus members have been conscious of in the past but with our advancing years and recent experiences perhaps is something that we should not ignore. What did spur us on was when one of the Kibworth group mentioned that they were heading for the same pub as ourselves and that, during their pre-ordering meeting, the pub was out of some choices. We therefore broke off our conversation and completed the walk back into Goadby. From there we drove to The Fox and Hounds in Tugby for a leisurely lunch arriving before the Kibworth lot!
We were joined there by the Mitchells, major and minor. Mitchell minor (David) entertained us by relating the saga of car keys lost inside David’s new all electric Hyundai car. The keys were the vital possession of a friend to whom David was offering a lift. Despite having searched the car thoroughly the previous day for the errant key, the owner’s tech savvy daughter had unearthed the means of operating the tracker attached to the key. She was able, from her home in London, to tell her father that at 8.58am the keys were at Leicestershire Golf Club and at 12 noon they were at a pub in Tugby. The only explanation for this sequence was that the key was definitely in David’s car! Thereupon he had to interrogate the car’s handbook to find how to move the seats so that a complete examination could be carried out. Lo and behold the key was found! The wonders, and the pit falls of modern life!
With that excitement, lunch was completed and we look forward to the next walk in April being led by Gordon Squires.
Charles Stewart
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PROBUS WALK: FEBRUARY 2025
The arrangements for the February Walk reflected the pressures and changes that are occurring within the membership of our Leicester Wyvern Probus Club. As no individual had volunteered to lead the walk this month, Richard Ward unearthed a walk that he had previously led in 2023. He proposed that we follow that route but in reverse. Unfortunately, to add to his responsibilities caring for his wife, Jean, Richard himself became unwell over December and January necessitating him to withdraw from those participating in the walk. Martin Waddington was another member who had to absent himself due to Barbara’s ill-health. Similar pressures affected Patrick Holligan however he secured improved care for Susan and was able, not only to be present, but to bring a friend, Meran Lloyd-Owen, to swell the numbers.
In all, eight walkers assembled at the Stilton Cheese Inn, Somerby. Brian Marlow nobly arrived from Wiltshire minus his walking boots and was encouraged to forgo the walk but to meet at a convenient spot for coffee. Two others, David Mitchell and Philip Parkinson, expressed concern at walking the whole route and elected to follow a shortened version. Such is the effect of advancing years on our membership!
The party set off out of Somerby along the Newbold road. Adding to our problems, navigating a path unfamiliar to all, was the fact that Somerby is placed on the bottom right corner of one OS map and the walk appears at the top of a different OS map. All this contributed to the excitement of the day. About half a mile from Somerby we left the road and progressed downhill through cattle pastures and along muddy tracts to reach the pleasant and little used Marefield to Newbold road. At this point the OS map showed a footpath crossing the road, however this was not found! Common sense recommended that we follow the road into Newbold where Philip and David branched off to return to Somerby. The remaining five, Mike Stephens, Patrick Holligan, Meran Lloyd-Owen, Gordon Squires and Charles Stewart, continued along the gated road to Owston. This proved to have been a sensible decision as there were signs of flooding in the adjacent fields and the final two miles from Owston back to Somerby, across the fields, was very muddy and heavy going. Brian met us at Owston with welcome refreshments allowing the walking party to survive the final stretch back to the Stilton Cheese.
Despite the fractured nature of the group, all met up in the pub for an excellent pub lunch. David Caines, who had been due to be with us but withdrew at the last minute, missed out on the pub’s renowned sausages which were very much in evidence on the table.
Charles Stewart
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Probus Walk, January 15th 2025
January is always a difficult month in which to plan an outing in the countryside. Leicestershire has been severely affected by the wet conditions making many of the trails heavy going. Added to that we find that many of the lunchtime hostelries have understandably chosen to take a prolonged break after Christmas further reducing the choice of walking routes.
Despite these limitations, The Badger’s Sett in Cropston was selected as the base for our recent walk with the path being within the high ground of Bradgate Park. The number participating in the first walk of the year was severely reduced as a result of infirmities of members of Probus or their spouses, sadly a sign of our advancing years. Four stalwarts, David Mitchell, Mike Stephens and Philip Parkinson, along with yours truly, survived the various road closures and route diversions and set off from the pub carpark in thick fog in order to brave the heights of the park.
The route followed the western edge of Bradgate Park but Old John was never seen due to the mist. Navigational skills were aided by modern technology, however, as we descended towards the Newtown Linford side the fog began to clear allowing us to find a welcome bench on which to enjoy our refreshments. There a friendly female dog walker offered to take the obligatory photograph which failed to register any of us in the film star image that we all vainly think of ourselves.
Suitably refreshed and rested we continued down towards Lady Jane Grey’s house as the sky cleared to reveal the sun. A perfect winter’s day. We progressed across the river Lin to return to Cropston along the southern edge of the reservoir. Here in the shade of the trees the ground was still frozen. At one point Mike decided to demonstrate his agility by leaping what appeared to be a large clear puddle. As he landed on the far side his leading foot hit solid ice and his body elegantly cast an impression on the ground. His companions swiftly assisted him to his feel and fortunately the only feature injured was his pride.
No further incidents occurred and we safely returned to The Badger’s Sett where we were greeted by a very friendly bar maid and a welcoming log fire.
Charles Stewart