Cotswold Chatterblog

Date: May 27, 2008

A brand new publication has been launched that helps people using wheelchairs, power scooters and buggies to enjoy walking routes across the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). ‘Walks on Wheels’ is a collection of 15 walks descriptions and maps, which help people to explore quiet country paths, villages and market towns in the area.

The project which was devised by the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens to mark their 40th Anniversary was launched on the Badminton Estate by the Duchess of Beaufort on Friday 23rd May.

The walks are located across the Cotswolds AONB, which is a 790 square mile landscape, stretching from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the north, through Gloucestershire and West Oxfordshire down to west Wiltshire and the area around Bath in the south.

Members of the public can chose from 15 ‘walking’ experiences such as a route that takes in the highest point in the Cotswolds at Cleeve Common just outside Cheltenham, or two pleasant routes alongside canals in the south of the AONB.

All of the routes have been tested by disability and access groups from across the Cotswolds and have been carefully chosen to ensure that they are appropriate for users. The walks are available to download on the Cotswolds AONB website at www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

Phil Hughes, Chairman of Stroud & District Access Group said:

“I am delighted that we were given the opportunity to be involved from the outset with the project.”

Access Group member Pam said:

“Being a wheelchair user, this is great because now with walks on wheels I am able to go with my grandchildren to the countryside and join in, and with the publication of these walks being readily available, all members of the family will now be able to participate together.”

Organised mother and toddler, disability and walking groups are encouraged to contact the Cotswolds Conservation Board and request the walks pack. Tel: 01451 862000

Photo: Left to right – Back row. Niel Curwen, Chairman of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, The Duchess of Beaufort, Louise Fifield, Stephen Wright ( Cotswold Voluntary Warden). Front row: Pam Hughes, Hugo Fifield (age 3), Colin Foster. Photo (c) Steve Peach.

Source: Cotswolds Conservation Board

Tags: cotswolds | conservation | walks | volunteering

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