My day as a guide
Ever
wondered what it’s like to be the person who lives in
your SatNav? Well I found out during West Kent’s annual
walk with the London Blind Ramblers on Sunday 30th July.
We met at Borough Green station ("mind the gap") on a
lovely sunny morning and it was evident we had another
good turnout with 18 from WKWG and 15 from LBR. After
introductions we paired up for the first leg of the 9
mile circular walk across rolling fields ("after 100
metres cowpat minefield approaching"), we needed the
side stepping dexterity of Strictly dancers’ to
negotiate that one! Orchards beckoned towards Ightham
Mote. The beautiful apple orchards ("mind the
overhanging trees") proved to be an enjoyable
distraction as some foraged for decent windfalls ("apple
hazard on footpath") and shared with our friends, of
course!
I helped to guide Jason, an IT teacher, as we chatted
about our respective groups and shared interests in
cricket and football. Rambling was his main escape from
the constant misery of football as he is a Crystal
Palace supporter. I then helped to guide his wife
Jess ("after 50 metres uneven ground ahead") and learnt
about their life together in south east London, their
charity work and their recent trip to Italy with a
company that specialises in holidays for the blind.
We
then enjoyed a picnic lunch at Ightham Mote, a 14th
Century moated manor house, now a National Trust
property. Other members took over guiding duties with
most leading a partner for at least one leg of the
walk. ("after 15 metres keep left stiles ahead"). Of
course, we mustn't forget the wonderful dogs, both guide
dogs and others who joined in the fun! Continuing along
quiet country lanes ("ahead, narrow path, single file
only") and more Kentish orchards before returning to
Borough Green station ("you have reached your
destination") to say our goodbyes and look forward to
another walk next year. Thanks to Eva for arranging on
behalf of West Kent Ramblers and to everyone who made
this such a fun and rewarding day.
If your group would like to invite the London Blind
Ramblers for a walk please email Valerie@clark.co.uk or
visit http://www.metroblindsport.org/london-blind-rambling-club.
They do 24 walks a year between March and October
usually between 6-8 miles.
Alan Richardson
Social Secretary, West Kent Walking Group
Edited by Vic Hillary, WKWG Photography by Brian
Rowland
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