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Article - Blue Walks 75

Region 4 First Walking Group By Gareth Cowley , Secretary Dyfed Powys Branch The Dyfed Powys Branch undertook their first Walking Group event in the Pembrokeshire area, having had 7 5 A R Y 1950 SECTION UK

2025

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several previous attempts “washed out” by the weather! O n Monday 5th May, an enthusiastic group of Dyfed Powys walkers met at the Merrion Camp in Castlemartin, to navigate the seven mile walk along the beautiful coastline. This walk is only accessible for a designated number of days in the year as it is almost entirely undertaken on the live Castlemartin Firing Ranges and as such the coastal features seen are not usually visible to walkers on other days of the year. A 0945 start under the watchful eye of IPA member and Volunteer National Park Guide Gary Hicks, walkers set out. Weather conditions ideal, a light breeze cooling walkers along the route but pleasant enough to make rest breaks an opportunity to enjoy! A steady walk along the cliffs, with excellent knowledge and information provided by Gary, and his assistant Mick en route. Physical coastline features such as arches, stacks and caves observed on route. Seals and nesting Choughs and a sighting of one of the smallest birds of prey, a Hobby, made the walk even more special. The foundations of an Iron Age village are also clearly visible.

When the ranges were acquired for military training in 1938, residents and tenant farmers were forced to leave the area leaving their properties to be demolished or left open to nature. The Old Mill is pictured, showing a nasty case of rising damp! No dogs or under 18s are allowed, just in case little “unexploded” presents were brought back to their owners but no such concerns or necessity to shout “incoming” and dive for cover on this day! The minibus ride back to the meeting point at 16.45 after 7 miles was very welcome. Thanks to all who took part, to Gary and Mick for their excellent company and informative guidance and interest in this beautiful part of the world. Further details of walks in the Castlemartin area or throughout Pembrokeshire, can be found at www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/calendar -of-events

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POLICE WORLD Vol 70 No.3, 2025