Unpredictable weather played havoc with our walks this week. Five Nordic Walkers met at Colby Woodland Gardens on Thursday, only to find the car parks closed, presumably because it was very windy. After a quick consultation, they moved on to Wiseman’s Bridge. The wind on the sea front was ferocious and the rain was bucketing down. Paul decided to lead the walkers up the Dramway out of the wind. After the usual warm-up they set off, with the leader wondering if this was a good idea. After about 30 yards there was a clear message from on high. An enormous clap of thunder followed by several lesser examples, was the signal to abandon the walk. The walkers consoled themselves, first with coffee in a nice warm pub, followed by lunch in another. By the time they’d finished lunch the weather had eased. They did consider whether to do a walk after all, but by unanimous consent they headed home to dry out.

On Saturday, the forecast was wet and windy in the morning, with worse to follow later. So it was an optimistic 25 walkers who gathered outside Regency Hall. The planned walks from Kilgetty had already been abandoned, because the underpass under the Kilgetty bypass was impassable with floodwater. Brian supported by Chris, led the small Speedies group along the Coast Path to Wiseman’s Bridge. Barbara backed by Marlene, led the Steadies along behind them. The rain was on and off, as a succession of heavy showers passed through. On arrival at Wiseman’s Bridge, the Speedies continued up the Dramway to the Heritage Park. The Steadies turned around and retraced their steps to Saundersfoot. On arrival the Steadies dispersed in search of refreshments. After some little while, the Speedies arrived looking noticeably soggy after their longer walk. The conversation flowed merrily, as the walkers were clearly happy to be out with friends, even if it was testing their waterproofs to the limit.

Tomorrow, Saturday, is the club Christmas lunch at the Giltar Hotel. The walk will start at the later time of 11.15am from Battery Gardens. For those not walking, please do not arrive at the hotel until after 12 noon, to allow the staff time to prepare the room. For more information about Steps2Health and its programmes, visit www.steps2health.org.uk .