This post is just to try and make sure that anyone planning on joining an SOC walk in the coming season, is aware of the revised pick up arrangements for those travelling by train.

Previously it was the case that anyone arriving at the designated pick up station, was likely to find a number of cars waiting to give them and others a lift to the pub where the walk starts from. However it was frequently the case that cars with spare seats exceeded the number of walkers, so the new SOC walks organiser has revised the arrangements. This is to save drivers from making unnecessary calls at the station.

He says :- "We do endeavour to provide a lift from the rail station to the walk start point. However please note that that we cannot guarantee a lift. Should there be insufficient cars at the pick-up station it will be necessary for some walkers arriving by train to take a mini cab to the start point and share the cost. To try and avoid this happening, it is essential that if you are planning to arrive by train, you must contact the Walk Leader, either by email or phone, at least a week in advance. By letting him know, we can try and plan ahead."

The leader of the walk concerned will, on the basis of the number of people who have contacted him, try to arrange for sufficient transport to be available.

John