Ramble on

The group was formed following a meeting in March 1964 in the Market House in Kingston Market Place when it was decided the group should be formed.

The meeting was chaired by James Chuter Ede, who was later to become Home Secretary. Minutes from the meeting noted he conducted the meeting with "his usual courteous competence and lively wit".

A total of 70 people attended the first meeting and were so enthusiastic that by the end, 56 people had paid their five shilling subscription (25p) to become members.

Today the group boasts more than 900 members although around 400 of them do not regularly participate in walks but joined to show their support and boost funds.

About 25 members usually turn up on each walk, mainly in the Surrey and Sussex countryside. They walk for around 10 miles stopping for a picnic or a pub lunch.

The group also arranges walking holidays abroad for its members. Last year they enjoyed trips to Bavaria in Germany and Tenby in Wales.

Member secretary Edith Harper said: "We are a very friendly group and are always welcoming to new members.

"We hold three walks every week. There's usually an under-10-mile ramble on a Wednesday or Thursday and a longer walk every Saturday and Sunday.

"We suggest new members come out with us two or three times to make sure we're what they're looking for before joining the Rambling Association, which we are affiliated to."

The group was due to celebrate its 40th anniversary with two celebratory walks on Sunday.

Mrs Harper, 75, added that many older members see health benefits from taking part in the walks.

She said: "We all get a bit stiff in our old age and I'm sure all that walking and climbing over stiles does us a lot of good."

New members can simply turn up to a walk, ensuring they are equipped with comfortable walking boots, a waterproof jacket and overtrousers, a packed lunch and a first aid kit.

The next walk is around Hook, via Old Basing, on Saturday, May 1. Meet at Hook railway station at 10am or Surbiton station at 9.25am.