This new group will meet weekly, Tuesdays at 10 o’clock, at the Main Gate of Bushy Park, in Teddington from mid September. This is next to the 481 bus stop at Avenue Gardens, and a 5-minute walk from Teddington Station. It is 10-minute walk from the centre of Teddington, & buses 33, R68, 281 & 285.

This group is for those who want exercise, but are not seeking to break records. I AM NOT A QUALIFIED INSTRUCTOR, so I will assume you have some knowledge of Nordic Walking, and the kit (poles) to do it with. I envisage a typical walk taking the perimeter path round past the Millenium Wood, the skylarks, and on to the Childen’s play area/toilets; stopping for a coffee at the ‘Diana’ Kiosk, and then returning to the Main Gate along Chestnut Avenue by 11 o’clock. That would be a couple of miles, and sounds even better in kilometres?

It is about exercise and fitness, but participants should set their own pace, not have it set by the ‘leader’; I doubt I would be at the front - but if I am, I think it’s more sociable to loop back to the rear of the group, and work my way forward again, rather than have the group strung out and people tailing behind. We will stop for a rest, or to count ducks or cygnets.

For those completely new to Nordic Walking, it may be possible to provide some basic instruction, but you would need to buy your own Nordic Walking (not trekking) poles - around £30 for a basic set. Guidance on this could be given at an initial meeting.

If this is a group that would interest you, please contact Steve at email above.