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Choose from over 100 varied walks in May: History & Heritage, Community, Food & Drink, Habitats & Wildlife and Health Walks - there’s something for everyone! Wirral Walking Festival 2014
Choose from over 100varied walks in May: History & Heritage,Community, Food & Drink,Habitats & Wildlife andHealth Walks - there’ssomething for everyone!
WirralWalkingFestival2014
We would love to see any photos or videos you have taken during thefestival. Please tweet @visit_wirral and use the hashtag #wirralwalkfest or post your photos to www.facebook.com/LoveWirral
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Wirral WalkingFestival 2014Building on the success of the 2013 Wirral Walking Festival this event is again one of the highlights of Wirral’s events calendar.
A new category of ‘community’ has been added and I’m delighted to seethat this has been used by some of our volunteer groups to showcase thework that they do and hopefully encourage others to get actively involved.
Volunteer task days have also been included in the 2014 Wirral WalkingFestival Programme and the Friends of Birkenhead Park have organised aphotographic competition on the theme of ‘Wirral Walks and Landmarks’with judging and an exhibition to take place as part of the Walking Festival.
The festival provides a fantastic opportunity to show what Wirral has to offer and we would welcome contributions for next year so please [email protected] to discuss your entry for 2015!
Finally, I would like to thank Merseyrail for their sponsorship which has allowedus to produce a hard copy brochure as well as posters for the Walking Festival.
Councillor Chris MeadenCabinet Member for Health & Wellbeing
Many of the walks in this brochure are accessible topeople with limited mobility. However it is recommendedthat you check with the walk organiser for each eventif you have specific requirements including wheelchairaccess or are unable to step over stiles. In many casesthe walk route can be adapted to provide access forall. Also, if you are unable to attend the walk at thetimes shown, please contact the walk leader who willbe able to advise alternative meeting points for you
to join the walk at a different location later on. Finally, if you need to leavea walk early please let the walk leader know!
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Wirral Walking Festival 2014
Calendar of WalksDate & name of walk
Thursday 1st May• Irby Mill Circular Walk• Flaybrick Cemetery Military Walk• The Public Gardens of Port Sunlight
• Walking for Health• Buggy Park Fitness
Friday 2nd May• Birkenhead Park Bat Walk & Talk• Heswall Dales
Saturday 3rd May• Outdoor Gym Trail
Sunday 4th May• International Dawn Chorus Day• Walking for Health• Storeton Village Historic Walk
Monday 5th May• Rings Around the World• Walking for Health• Wirralside Walkers Walking Group
Tuesday 6th May• Brotherton Park & Dibbinsdale• Neston Colliery & Burton Marsh
WW2 History• Brimstage• Walking for Health• Walking for Health
Wednesday 7th May• Step Out Sponsored Walk• Coast to Coast - Parkgate to Eastham• Walking for Health
Location/Group
Wirral Footpaths & Open SpacesWirral History & HeritagePort Sunlight Museum & Garden VillageRoyden ParkBirkenhead Park
Wirral RangersWirral Ramblers
Birkenhead Park
Wirral RangersBirkenhead ParkWirral Archaeology
Wirral RangersBirkenhead ParkAge UK
Friends of DibbinsdaleWirral History & Heritage
Wirral RamblersWallaseyBirkenhead Park
Stroke AssociationWirral Footpaths & Open SpacesPort Sunlight
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Date & name of walk
Wednesday 7th May (continued)• Walking for Health• Buggy Park Fitness• Two Miles to Tanskey’s• Walking for Health
Thursday 8th May• Health & Wellbeing in Port Sunlight
• A Stroll Through Hoylake’s History• Walking for Health• Buggy Park Fitness
Friday 9th May• Willaston Fields & Paths• Spital
Saturday 10th May• Hooton to Hoylake - Clockwise• Royden Park & The Farmers Arms• Litter Pickin’ Parade• Outdoor Gym Trail
Sunday 11th May• Annual Wirral Coastal Walk• Walking for Health
Monday 12th May• Exploring Bidston Moss• All Around the Vale• Arrowe to Heswall• Walking for Health• Buggy Park Fitness
Tuesday 13th May• A Tale of Two Parks• Bidston• Heswall Dales• Walking for Health• Walking for Health
Wednesday 14th May• Sunset at Sheldrakes• Central Park, New York & Birkenhead Park
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Location/Group
West KirbyAshton ParkWirral RangersCentral Park
Port Sunlight Museum & Garden VillageWirral PedestriansRoyden ParkBirkenhead Park
Wirral Footpaths & Open SpacesWirral Ramblers
East Lancs Long Distance WalkersWirral Footpaths & Open SpacesNew BrightenersArrowe Park
North Wirral Rotary ClubBirkenhead Park
Wirral Footpaths & Open SpacesVale ParkWirral RamblersBirkenhead ParkAshton Park
Wirral RangersWirral RamblersWirral Footpaths & Open SpacesWallaseyBirkenhead Park
Wirral Rangers & Cheshire WildlifeBirkenhead Park
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Date & name of walk
Wednesday 14th May (continued)• Walking for Health• Walking for Health• Walking for Health
Thursday 15th May• Irby & The Shippons• Conserving Port Sunlight Village
• Walking for Health•Buggy Park Fitness
Friday 16th May• Storeton
Saturday 17th May• Birds of Wirral Country Park with RSPB• Outdoor Gym Trail
Sunday 18th May• Hooton to Hoylake - Anti-clockwise• Landican, Thingwall & Barnston Dale
Historic Walk• Notable Trees of Birkenhead Park• Walking for Health• Sheldrakes Sunday Carvery
Monday 19th May• Walking for Health• Buggy Park Fitness• White Top Walkers Walking Group
Tuesday 20th May• Raby to Cherry Wood• Bats in Brotherton Park• Walking for Health• Walking for Health
Wednesday 21st May• Walking for Health• Walking for Health• Buggy Park Fitness• Twelve Quays• Walking for Health
Location/Group
Port SunlightAshton ParkCentral Park
Wirral Footpaths & Open SpacesPort Sunlight Museum & Garden VillageRoyden ParkBirkenhead Park
Wirral Ramblers
Wirral RangersVictoria Park
Merseyside Long Distance WalkersWirral Archaeology
Wirral RangersBirkenhead ParkWirral Rangers & Cheshire Wildlife Trust
Birkenhead ParkAshton ParkAge UK
Wirral RamblersWirral RangersWallaseyBirkenhead Park
Port SunlightWest KirbyAshton ParkWirral Footpaths & Open SpacesCentral Park
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Date & name of walk
Thursday 22nd May• Port Sunlight’s First Residents
•Walking for Health• Buggy Park Fitness
Friday 23rd May• Parkgate• Summer Special Health Walk
Saturday 24th May• Outdoor Gym Trail
Sunday 25th May• Bidston Hill & Village Historic Walk• Royden Park•Walking for Health
Monday 26th May• Walking for Health
Tuesday 27th May• Meols• Birkenhead Park Bat Walk• Walking for Health• Walking for Health
Wednesday 28th May• Walking for Health• Walking for Health• Walking for Health• Buggy Park Fitness• Bebington
Thursday 29th May• Walking for Health• Buggy Park Fitness
Friday 30th May• Royden Park• There’s Lizards in Them Thar Hills!
• Friday 31st May• Outdoor Gym Trail• Sunset Walk to Hilbre
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Location/Group
Port Sunlight Museum & Garden VillageRoyden ParkBirkenhead Park
Wirral RamblersWest Kirby
Central Park
Wirral ArchaeologyWirral RangersBirkenhead Park
Birkenhead Park
Wirral RamblersWirral RangersWallaseyBirkenhead Park
Port SunlightWest KirbyCentral ParkAshton ParkWirral Footpaths & Open Spaces
Royden ParkBirkenhead Park
Wirral RamblersFriends of Grange Hill
BeechwoodWirral Rangers
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Wirral Walking Festival 2014
CommunityA new theme for 2014 offering a wider range of walks including visits tosome of our historic villages and landscapes. Discover a part of Wirralyou’ve never visited!
Heswall DalesFriday 2nd May, 7.30pm - 9pmCost: FREE
This walk is about 3.5 mileslong. Starting at the Dales,we go past Dale Farmdown through the Dales to
Pipers Lane and onto the Wirral Waynear Sheldrakes. We go up throughthe Dungeons and back to OldfieldRoad. The walk is mostly flat except forthe climb at the Dungeons. No dogs.Event Grid Ref: SJ 259 824Contact: 0151 605 0591Email:[email protected] at: The Dales, Oldfield Rd, HeswallNearest Station: Heswall
BrimstageTuesday 6 May, 7.30pm – 9pmCost: FREE
A pleasant flat walk fromBrimstage takes us via abridleway and then pathsacross fields to Thornton
Hough. A brief section on ThorntonCommon Road is then followed by awalk across more fields towardsClatterbridge, before turning north toBrimstage. No dogs. Event Grid Reference: SJ 304 827Contact: 0151 605 0591Email: [email protected] at: The Craft Centre, BrimstageNearest Station: Heswall
Coast to Coast - Parkgate to EasthamWednesday 7th May, 11am - 4.30pmCost: FREE
Walk along the Wirral Wayto Hadlow Road Station fora picnic lunch (bring yourown) before continuing to
Raby Mere, Dibbinsdale Local NatureReserve and finishing at EasthamFerry. No dogs.Contact: 0151 604 1057Meet at: Mostyn House School,Parkgate, CH64 6SGNearest Station: Neston
SpitalFriday 9th May, 7.30pm - 9pmCost: FREE
From the station we gothrough Brotherton Park,Spital Dam towardsBebington Village along
disused Lever Railway line by the backof the Croft Retail Park before crossingthe A41 and through Brotherton Park.You may wish to bring a torch for theshort tunnel section. No dogs.Event Grid Ref: SJ 339 829Contact: 0151 605 0591Email:[email protected] at: Spital Station Car ParkNearest Station: Spital
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Arrowe to HeswallMonday 12th May, 9.30am - 4.30pmCost: FREE
This 13 mile walk goesfrom Arrowe Parkthrough Landican andStoreton en route to
Brimstage and is part of theArrowe Park to Parkgate CircularWalk. From here we head throughThornton Hough to Raby and thenon to Neston, Parkgate, Gaytonand Heswall. Those not wanting towalk so far can catch a bus toArrowe Park at a number of places.Packed lunch required. No dogs.Event Grid Ref: SJ 275 858Contact: 0151 605 0591E-mail:[email protected] at: The Cherry Orchard,Arrowe ParkNearest Station: Upton
The New Brighteners - Litter Pickin’ ParadeSaturday 10th May, 11am – 1pmCost: FREE (cash donations to ClaireHouse gratefully accepted on the day)
A litter picking beachpromenade (approx 1.25miles) from the Black Pearl II,to the Clown Roundabout
for lunch (bring your own). Wellies orboots, strong gloves and appropriateclothing is recommended. Pickingequipment supplied. Dogs welcomebut must be under control at all times.Booking EssentialContact: 07769 554173Email: [email protected] Grid Reference: SJ 313 938Nearest Station: New Brighton
Heswall DalesTuesday 13th May, 10.30am – 1pmCost: FREE
From Heswall Bus Stationthis walk will visit HeswallDales, Heswall shore,Heswall Fields and the
Dungeons before returning viaCleaver Heath and to the bus station.Event Grid Ref: SJ 271 818Contact: 0151 342 4462Email:[email protected] at: Heswall Bus StationNearest station: Heswall
BidstonTuesday 13th May, 7.30pm - 9.15pmCost: FREE
From Bidston station wehead first to Bidston village,then Bidston Hill andcontinue as far as the
windmill. We follow the old deer parkwall and head back to the villagebefore returning to the railwaystation. Good views of Liverpool Bayare to be enjoyed from the top ofBidston Hill. No dogs.Event Grid Ref: SJ 284 907Contact: 0151 605 0591Email:[email protected] at: Bidston Station Car ParkNearest station: Bidston
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Nearest station: BromboroughTwelve QuaysWednesday 21st May, 2pm StartCost: FREE
This walk will start from thebooking hall in the ferryterminal and follow thepublic right of way, mostly
along the river side. It will beconducted at an easy pace and issuitable for wheelchairs. Walkers caneither return along the same route ortake the bus or ferry back. The distancein each direction is about 1½ miles.Contact: 0151 625 7361Meet at: Seacombe Ferry, CH44 6QYNearest Station: Hamilton Square
ParkgateFriday 23rd May, 7.30pm - 9.15pmCost: FREE
From the Boathouse wehead north westalong the coast to GaytonCottage and turn north
east crossing the Wirral Way beforeturning into Gayton Farm Road. Wepick up the track that runs parallel toHeswall Golf course, and then turnsouth west into Wood Lane andreturn to the Boathouse. No dogsEvent Grid Ref: SJ 275 787Contact: 0151 605 0591E-mail:[email protected] at: The Boathouse, ParkgateNearest station: Heswall
StoretonFriday 16th May, 7.30pm - 9.15pmCost: FREE
From Marsh Lane we walksouth through StoretonWood and Hancock Woodto Bracken Lane before
descending through fields toBrimstage Lane. Here we turn rightthrough fields and pass the catteryto Storeton. We then return via LeverCauseway to the start. Sorry no dogs.Event Grid Ref: SJ 314 853Contact: 0151 605 0591E-mail:[email protected] at: Marsh Lane/Mount Road,Higher BebingtonNearest station: Bebington
Raby to Cherry WoodTuesday 20th May, 7.30pm - 9.45pmCost: FREEFrom the Wheatsheaf we head south
along a track that takes usto Cherry Wood and thenemerges on to QuarryRoad. We then go by track
and road first to the Old Mill and thenreturn passing Roselea Cottage. Wehave a pleasant walk up rural SchoolLane and then across fields to returnto Raby. No dogs.Event Grid Ref: SJ 312 798Contact: 0151 605 0591Email:[email protected] at: The Wheatsheaf Car Park,Raby, CH63 4JH
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Royden ParkFriday 30th May, 7.30pm - 9pmCost: FREE
This walk is a gentle walkwith little ascent passingRoodee Mere and FrankbyMere before returning via
Hillbark to the car park. No dogs.Event Grid Ref: SJ 245 860Contact: 0151 605 0591Email:[email protected] at: Royden Park Car ParkNearest station: West Kirby
MeolsTuesday 27th May, 7.30pm - 9.15pmCost: FREE
From the station car parkwe walk via DovepointRoad to the Prom. We headsouth west to King's Gap
and walk along the coast to RedRocks. We return via Stanley Road,the Green Lodge, Kings Gap and theProm to Meols station car park. Noascent involved. Sorry no dogsEvent Grid Ref: SJ 233 897Contact: 0151 605 0591Email:[email protected] at: Meols Station Car ParkNearest station: Meols
BebingtonWednesday 28th May, 2pm - 4.30pmCost: FREE
Brackenwood Golf Courseand Brimstage CraftCentre before returningacross the fields. No dogs.
Contact: 0151 334 9941Email:[email protected] at: Old Clatterbridge Road(Claremont Farm)Nearest Station: Spital
“If the benefits of exercise werein a pill form, it would bedeemed a miracle cure.”That’s right, exercise is a MIRACLECURE that is free and everyoneof all ages, shapes and sizes cando it. So why not start walkingtoday to start reaping the rewards.
What am I?- I reduce the risk of majorillnesses such as heart disease,stroke and diabetes.- I can boost your mood and selfesteem, as well as improvingyour quality of sleep.- I can reduce your risk of stress,depression, dementia andAlzheimer’s disease.- I am free and can be doneanywhere.
What am I? Walking. There arelots of benefits to be gainedfrom walking and it’s free too!
www.wirralct.nhs.uk
These walks arevery enjoyable -good company!Feedback comments fromWirral Walking Festival 2013
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Wirral Walking Festival 2014
Port SunlightMembers of the Port Sunlight Museum & Garden Village will be leading fourwalks as part of the 2014 Wirral Walking Festival.
The Public Gardens of Port SunlightThursday 1st May, 2.30pm – 4pmCost: £7.50 (includes Port SunlightMuseum entry + hot/cold drink in ‘Tea’)Walking tour of the public gardens ofPort Sunlight including the trees, thebedding displays, and the two areason English Heritage’s ‘Register ofHistoric Parks and Gardens ofspecial historic interest in England’ -The Dell and The Diamond.Booking essentialContact: 0151 644 6466Email: [email protected] station: Bebington
Health and Wellbeing in Port SunlightThursday 8th May, 2.30pm - 4pmCost: £7.50 (includes Port SunlightMuseum entry + hot/cold drink in ‘Tea’)Linked to 3rd annual Port SunlightRoad Race, this walking tour willexplore the recreational facilitiesprovided by village founder WilliamHesketh Lever for his workforce, andthe importance he placed on health& wellbeing for the body and mind.Booking essentialContact: 0151 644 6466Email: [email protected] Station: Bebington
Conserving Port SunlightVillageThursday 15th May, 2.30pm – 4pmCost: £7.50 (includes Port SunlightMuseum entry + hot/cold drink in ‘Tea’)Linked to 15th anniversary of PortSunlight Village Trust, this walkingtour will explore the village's publicbuildings and houses focusing onthe erosion of the built heritage andthe work being done to conserve thevillage for another 100 years.Booking essentialContact: 0151 644 6466Email: [email protected] Station: Bebington
Port Sunlight’s First ResidentsThursday 22nd May, 2.30pm – 4pmCost: £7.50 (includes Port SunlightMuseum entry + hot/cold drink in ‘Tea’)Celebrating the 125th anniversary ofthe first village residents, this walkingtour will explore the lives of theseearly tenants, the houses they livedin, and the first phase of the village’sdevelopment.Booking essentialContact: 0151 644 6466Email: [email protected] Station: Bebington
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Wirral Walking Festival 2014
History & HeritageJoin a local expert and discover some of Wirral’s past and the work beingundertaken to protect and promote our diverse history and heritage.
Military Walk AroundFlaybrick CemeteryThursday 1st May, 11am - 1pmCost: FREE (money required for café)
Walk around FlaybrickCemetery which wasopened in 1864 and
overlooked by Bidston Hill. The walk willinclude some of the Military Gravesand include many of the mature treesthat are a prominent feature there.The walk is between 1-2 miles, groundis uneven. Refreshments will beavailable from ‘Best Bites’. No dogs.Contact: 0151 608 5050Email: [email protected] at: Tam O’Shanter Cottage,CH43 7PDNearest station: Bidston
Storeton Village Historic WalkSunday 4th May, 2pm – 4pmCost: £3
A gentle walk overmainly level groundlooking at the work of
Wirral Archaeology in the area andespecially the research undertakenon the suspected battlefield ofBrunanburh in 937AD.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 647 1762Email: [email protected] station: Bebington
Neston Colliery and BurtonMarsh WW2 HistoryTuesday 6th May, 10am - 2pmCost: £3 (plus money required for café)
A there and backagain walk along thenew Sustrans Route
568 cycleway past Burton Point tothe English / Welsh border. Starts witha walk around the Colliery sites, andthen continues along the cyclewaylooking at WW2 remains and return.Packed lunch at Burton Point,facilities at Nets Café. About 5 miles.Access for all.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 336 5973Email: [email protected] Station: Neston
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All Around the ValeMonday 12th May, 11am - 12.30pmCost: FREEA circular walk and talk all about thehistory of the Magazine Brow andVale Park, with an optional prize quiz!Booking EssentialContact: 0151 638 0069Email: [email protected] station: New Brighton
A Tale of Two ParksTuesday 13th May, 10am - 2pmCost: FREEJoin the Wirral Rangers walk aroundDibbinsdale Local Nature Reserveand Eastham Country Park stoppingat Eastham for lunch. There are foodoutlets at Eastham or you could bringa packed lunch. This walk will be nomore than five miles and some of thewalk will be on open roads. Dogs mustbe kept under control at all times.Contact: 0151 334 9851Email: [email protected] at: The Rangers Office,Dibbinsdale, CH62 2BJNearest station: Spital
Central Park New York & Birkenhead ParkWednesday 14th May, 1.30pm - 3pmCost: FREEA ranger-led walk looking at thefeatures in Birkenhead which inspiredthe design of Central Park, New Yorkand information on the currentexchange between the two parks.Contact: 0151 652 5197Email: [email protected] at: Birkenhead Park VisitorCentre, CH41 4HYNearest station: Birkenhead Park
Brotherton Park andDibbinsdaleTuesday 6th May, 10am - 12.30pmCost: FREE
A guided walkaround BrothertonPark and
Dibbinsdale Local Nature Reservelooking at the recent heritage andhistory of the reserve and how thevalley was formed. There are somehills on site and sturdy footwear isrecommended. The walk will coverno more than two miles. Contact: 0151 334 9851Email [email protected] at: The Rangers Office,Dibbinsdale, CH62 2BJNearest station: Spital
A Stroll Through Hoylake’sHistoryThursday 8th May, 2pm - 4pmCost: FREE
An urbanseaside walkof 2-3 miles
suitable for all including wheelchairusers. We will walk slowly on hardsurfaces around the oldest parts ofHoylake, taking note of thedevelopment and life of the village,from the fishing hamlet of the 18thcentury to the seaside resort anddormitory suburb of the early 20thcentury. This walk has beenorganised by the Wirral PedestriansAssociation.Contact: 0151 345 3816Email: [email protected] at: Hoylake Merseyrail StationCH47 4AANearest station: Hoylake
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Landican, Thingwall andBarnston Dale Historic WalkSunday 18th May, 2pm - 4pmCost: £3
A gentle walk overmainly public footpaths,but which may be wet
and muddy in places, looking at thework of Wirral Archaeology in the area.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 647 1762Email: [email protected] Grid Ref: SJ 303 846Nearest station: Bebington
Bidston Hill and VillageHistoric WalkSunday 25th May, 2pm – 4pmCost: £3
A walk over some roughground, which may bewet in places, and with
a steep climb back from the village,looking at the work of WirralArchaeology in the area and includinga look at the interesting rock carvings.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 647 1762Email: [email protected] Grid Ref: SJ 292 894Nearest station: Birkenhead North End
How much exercise shouldI be doing each week?
a. 90 minutes a week(30 minutes 3 days a week)
b. 150 minutes a week(30 minutes 5 days a week)
c. 210 minutes a week(30 minutes 7 days a week)
ANSWER – b. Adults aged 18+should be doing 30 mins ofmoderate intensity activity 5 daysa week. You know you are doingmoderate intensity activity whenyour heart rate is raised and youfeel hot and sweaty. And if youdon’t have time to do it all at once,don’t worry, you can break it downinto smaller bouts. e.g. 10 mins ofwalking to the post office, 10 mins ofwalking to school, 10 mins walkingaround the block in the evening.N.B. start slow and gradually buildup your exercise habits.
Walk in a group & make new friendsAnd this will help you to stay
motivatedLeave the car behind and walk
your journey insteadKeep walking to get all of the
benefits of activityIdeal for all ages so….Now is the time to start!Goals – set yourself a walking
goal to get you started and try and achieve 10,000 steps a day.
www.wirralct.nhs.uk
A fantastic start to theday very friendly andinformative!Feedback comments from WirralWalking Festival 2013
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Volunteer Path Clearancein BrimstageThursday 1st May, 10am - 1pmCost: FREEHelp Wirral’s Rights of Way Officer cutand trim some of the paths thatmake up the Wirral Public Right ofWay network. No need to book.Appropriate clothing and footwearare essential.Contact: 0151 606 2480E-mail: [email protected] at: Talbot Avenue/Brimstage Rd
Access Improvements withWirral Autistic SocietyMonday 5th May, 11am – 2pmCost: FREE
Wirral AutisticSociety work atWirral Country
Park every Monday. Today the teamwill be working with the WirralCoastal Rangers improving pedestrianaccess at Caldy car park and alongthe Wirral Way.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 648 4371E-mail: [email protected]
Footpath Clearance with the Friends of North WirralCoastal ParkTuesday 6th May, 10am - 3pmCost: FREE
Help the Wirral CoastalRangers and volunteers cutback the footpath from
Leasowe Lighthouse to Meols.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 648 4371Email: [email protected]
Friends of HilbreWednesday 7th May, 10.15am - 2.30pmCost: FREEJoin the Friends of Hilbre and WirralCoastal Rangers on Hilbre Island toundertake some accessimprovements.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 648 4371Email: [email protected]
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Wirral Walking Festival 2014
Volunteer Task DaysJoin one of the practical task days during the Walking Festival and helpimprove access along the Wirral footpath network and in our Green Flag Parks
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Volunteer Path Clearance in RabyThursday 8th May, 10am - 1pmCost: FREEHelp Wirral’s Rights of Way Officer cutand trim some of the paths thatmake up the Wirral Public Right ofWay network. No need to book.Appropriate clothing and footwearare essential.Contact: 0151 606 2480Email: [email protected] at: Crossway, Raby Village
Wirral Country Park Task ForceThursday 8th May, 10am - 3pmCost: FREEThe weekly volunteer group will bemaking improvements to thestepped access to the foreshore.Join them and the Coastal Rangersfor a day on the beach!Booking EssentialContact: 0151 648 4371Email: [email protected]
Volunteer Path Clearance in ThingwallThursday 15th May, 10am – 1pmCost: FREEHelp Wirral’s Rights of Way Officer cutand trim some of the paths thatmake up the Wirral Public Right ofWay network. No need to book.Appropriate clothing and footwearare essential.Contact: 0151606 2480Email: [email protected] at: Lower Thingwall Lane,Thingwall
Access Improvements withWirral Autistic SocietyMonday 19th May, 11am - 2pmCost: FREE
Wirral AutisticSociety work atWirral Country
Park every Monday. The team will beimproving pedestrian access.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 648 4371Email: [email protected]
As new walkers we found it a verywelcoming groupFeedback comments fromWirral Walking Festival 2013
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Footpath Clearance withthe Friends of North WirralCoastal ParkTuesday 20th May, 10am - 3pmCost: FREE
Help the Wirral CoastalRangers and volunteersimprove pedestrian access
at the Gunsite.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 648 4371Email: [email protected]
Wirral Country Park Task ForceThursday 22nd May, 10am – 3pmCost: FREEThe weekly volunteer group will bemaking improvements to accesswithin Wirral Country ParkBooking EssentialContact: 0151 648 4371Email: [email protected] station: West Kirby
Volunteer Path Clearancein ThurstastonThursday 22nd May, 10am – 1pmCost: FREEHelp Wirral’s Rights of Way Officer cutand trim some of the paths thatmake up the Wirral Public Right ofWay network. No need to book.Appropriate clothing and footwearare essential.Contact: 0151 606 2480Email: [email protected] at: Thurstaston Church
Undertaking some practical estate maintenance work is a great way tocontribute to the management of your local environment – as well as agreat way to stay fit and active.
If you are interested in other practical volunteering opportunities then please contact Wirral’s Parks and Countryside Rangers on0151 648 4371 or email [email protected]
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Birkenhead Park Bat Walk and TalkFriday 2nd May, 7.30pm - 10pmCost: £2A talk and slideshow about bats atthe Visitor Centre ending in a guidedwalk looking for bats in BirkenheadPark. Suitable for accompaniedchildren over 8 years old.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 652 5197Email: [email protected] Station: Birkenhead Park
International Dawn Chorus DaySunday 4th May, 4.30am - 7amCost: FREEAn early start but worth it toexperience one of the best wildlifewatching spectacles! As dawn breakson International Dawn Chorus Dayjoin the Ranger for a walk aroundWirral Country Park to listen to ourresident and newly arrived migrantbirds burst into song. If you have them,bring a pair of binoculars.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 648 4371Email: [email protected] Station: (Not running at this time)
Rings Around the WorldCost: £6.50Monday 5th May, 6am – 11amJoin one of the Wirral Coastal Rangersand members of Hilbre Island BirdObservatory on a walk to Hilbre at theheight of Spring migration. This is aunique opportunity to get a behindthe scenes look at the work of HIBOas they study bird migration. We'llhave access to areas usually closedto the public & have a chance tosee birds being ringed. No dogsBooking EssentialContact: 0151 648 4371Email: [email protected] Station: (Not running at this time)
Wirral Walking Festival 2014
Habitats & WildlifeAnother series of specialist guided walks, this time looking at our richbiodiversity and range of habitats from grasslands and woodlands toheathlands and our own tidal island!
Excellent Ranger whowas very knowledgeableabout birds and faunain the park”Feedback comments from WirralWalking Festival 2013
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Willaston Fields and PathsFriday 9th May, 10.30am – 12.45pmCost: FREEThis is a pretty and varied 4.25 mile
‘figure of eight’ footpathwalk, to the north and westof Willaston village. N.B.walkers who do not want to
continue on the second part canfinish after the first 2 mile ‘loop’,which has no stiles. Can be muddyin parts depending on the weather.Total time 2.25 hrs approx.Contact: 0161 677 4594Email:[email protected] at: Hadlow Road Station CarPark, CH64 2UQNearest Station: Hooton
The Birds of Wirral Country ParkSaturday 17th May, 10am StartCost: FREE
Join the CoastalRangers and stafffrom the RSPB todiscover some of the
birds that can be found in thediverse habitats within and adjacentto Wirral Country Park. This walkincludes stepped access to theDungeons. Suitable footwear andclothing essential. Bring binoculars ifyou have them.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 648 4371Email: [email protected] station: West Kirby
Notable and Important Treesof Birkenhead ParkSunday 18th May, 2pm – 3.30pmCost: FREEA Ranger-led guided walk with thetrees dressed in their new foliageand looking their best. Dogs allowedon a lead.Contact: 0151 652 5197Email: [email protected] at: Birkenhead Park VisitorCentre, CH41 4HYNearest station: Birkenhead Park
Exploring Bidston MossMonday 12th May, 10.30am - 12pmFriday 16th May, 7pm - 8.30pmCost: FREE
Discover how an area ofnatural beauty which washeavily contaminated bylandfill tipping has been
reclaimed and restored. This is aneasy walk with a gradualelevation of only 100 feet.Event Grid Ref: SJ 289 913Contact: 0151 677 6250Meet at: Bidston B&Q car park(by flyover)Nearest Station: Bidston
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Bats in Brotherton ParkTuesday 20th May, 8.45pm - 10.45pmCost: FREEA walk around Dibbinsdale LocalNature reserve looking and listeningfor the bats that live in and aroundthe valley. There are some hills on siteand sturdy footwear is recommended.The walk will cover no more than twomiles. Children are welcome butmust be well supervised.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 334 9851Email: [email protected] station: Spital
Royden ParkSunday 25th May, 1pm - 4pmCost: FREEJoin the Wirral Rangers for a circularwalk around Royden Park and learnabout its management and the floraand fauna that can be found here.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 677 7594Email: [email protected] station: West Kirby
Birkenhead Park Bat WalkTuesday 27th May, 9pm – 10.30pmCost: £2A guided walk looking for bats inBirkenhead Park. Suitable foraccompanied children over 8.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 652 5197Email: [email protected] Station: Birkenhead Park
There’s Lizards in Them Thar Hills!Wednesday 30th May, 2pm - 4pmCost: FREEGrange Hill, with its landmark War-Memorial is an iconic local feature. It is also a nationally recognised siteof both biological and geologicalimportance. We take a close look ofthe wildlife features of interestparticular to the site, and how the‘Friends’ group work to support these features. Contact: 07790 352 394Email: [email protected] Grid Reference: SJ 221 869Meet at: Grange Old RoadNearest Station: West Kirby
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Sunset Walk to HilbreThursday 31st MayCost: FREE
Join the Friends of Hilbre, Wirral Coastal Rangers, and staff from the RSPBand Cheshire Wildlife Trust on this guided walk to the Hilbre Islands. Suitablefootwear and clothing essential. Bring binoculars if you have them.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 648 4371Email: [email protected] Station: West Kirby
2014 Wirral Walking Festival Finale
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Hooton to Hoylake Clockwise(approx 20 miles)Saturday 10th May, 9am - 5pmCost: FREE (Money required for return train andcar parking at Hooton if applicable)
From Hooton, the walk willproceed along the WirralWay popping intoParkgate for morning tea
and calling into the Thurstaston VisitorCentre for lunch (not provided) atabout 1.30pm. The walk will thencontinue to West Kirby crossing overto Hilbre before finishing at Hoylakeand return to Hooton via the train(optional travel back from West Kirbystation before or after Hilbre).Booking essentialContact: 01942 874719Email: [email protected] station: Hooton
Hooton to Hoylake Anti-Clockwise (approx 19 miles)Sunday 18th May, 9am - 5pmCost: FREE(Money required for return train andcar parking at Hooton if applicable)
From Hooton, the walk willproceed to Eastham Villageand Eastham
Country Park along the banks of theRiver Mersey to Shorefields andBirkenhead for a lunch stop atBirkenhead Priory (packed lunchrecommended). The walk will thencontinue along the north Wirralcoast to Seacombe, New Brighton,Wallasey, Leasowe and Meols andending at Hoylake to return toHooton via the train (optional travelback to Hooton from any of theabove Merseyrail stations).Booking essentialContact: 01942 874719Email: [email protected] Station: Hooton
Wirral Walking Festival 2014
The Wirral Circular TrailTwo groups from the Long Distance Walkers Association will be leading twoguided walks to cover the 35 mile Wirral Circular Trail in its entirety as partof the 2014 Wirral Walking Festival.
For a complete and detailed route, download the free WirralCircular Trail brochure at www.visitwirral.com/circulartrail
Take it with you on one of the above walks. Can’t make oneof the above walks? Why not download the free brochureand complete the Circular Trail at your leisure!
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Trying to lose weight?
Fad diets don’t work in the long term. To lose weight successfully youneed to improve your lifestyle by following a healthy balanced dietand doing regular exercise.
Walking can help you lose weightand improve your body shape,therefore gaining all the benefits ofexercise and weight loss. If you areinterested in trying to lose weight inthe long term then why not joinMeasure Up?
Measure Up is a free adult weightmanagement programme whichhelps you to take control of yourweight in the long term.
We will devise you an individualportion plan so you know exactlyhow much and what foods to eatto lose weight.
If you are interested in joining thisfree 12 week programme pleasecall 0151 630 8383 stating yourheight and weight or ask your GPto refer you onto the service.
www.wirralct.nhs.uk
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Irby Mill Circular walkThursday 1st May, 10am – 12pmCost: £5.50 (includes walk & meal)
Join one ofthe membersof the WirralFootpaths
and Open Spaces PreservationSociety for a 4 ½ mile morning walkto Royden Park, Stapleton Woods,Thurstaston Hill and ThurstastonCommon before returning to the IrbyMill Pub for a Ploughman’s Platter ofCheddar and Stilton cheese, slicedham, pork pies, apple, celery,Branston Pickle, gherkins & pickledonions and crusty baguette.Booking Essential:Contact: 0151 604 0194Email: [email protected] station: West Kirby
Two Miles to Tanskey’sWednesday 7th May, 6.30pm - 8.30pmCost: £9.99 (includes walk & meal)
Join one of theWirral CoastalRangers for an
evening walk starting from andfinishing at Tanskey’s in West Kirby.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 625 3882 Nearest station: West Kirby
Royden Park and The Farmer’s ArmsSaturday 10th May, 11am - 1pmCost: £5 (includes walk & meal)
Starting atthe FarmersArms Car
Park, the walk will continueto Royden Park and the WalledGarden and pond before followingthe paths to Irby Quarry. A walkalong the sandstone ridge willinclude some uneven ground beforereturning to the Farmers Arms and achance to taste their new ‘summermenu’ with various samples of dishesall on one plate!Booking EssentialContact: 0151 641 0159Email: [email protected] station: West Kirby
Wirral Walking Festival 2014
Food & DrinkThe first walk of the 2014 Wirral Walking Festival is a walk with the WirralFootpaths and Open Spaces Preservation Society from the Irby Mill. Enjoy a pleasant walk around Wirral’s countryside and then enjoy thehospitality from one of our ‘food and drink’ partners. Pre-booking is essential.
Enthusiasm of theRangers evident and appreciated”Feedback comments from Wirral Walking Festival 2013
“
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Sunset at SheldrakesWednesday 14th May,Cost: £8 (including walk & tapas)
Enjoy a leisurelyguided walkalong the DeeEstuary withCoastal Rangers
and Cheshire Wildlife Trust todiscover what can be seen alongthe estuary and cliffs, returningalong Heswall Fields and the WirralWay to a Mediterranean-style tapastaster at Sheldrakes Restaurant asthe sun sets over the estuary.Booking essentialContact: 0151 342 1556Email: [email protected] station: Heswall
Irby and the ShipponsThursday 15th May, 2pm – 5.30pmCost: £4.95
(includes walk and 2course meal)A circular ramble viaThurstaston, Oldfield, Poll
Hill, Barnston and Thingwall. Usingmainly public footpaths, with somequiet residential roads. Good viewsacross the Dee to Wales and visitingthe highest point on Wirral. Startingand finishing at the newly refurbishedShippons Pub in Irby. About 6 miles.Visit our website at www.shippons-irby.co.uk to make your meal choiceor pick up a menu before the walk.Booking EssentialContact: 0151 648 0449Email: [email protected] station: Heswall
Sheldrakes Sunday CarverySunday 18th May, 3pm – 5pmCost: £10 (includes walk & carvery)
Join the CoastalRangers andCheshire WildlifeTrust for a walkalong the Dee
Estuary returning along Heswall Fieldsand the Wirral Way to an earlyevening carvery at SheldrakesRestaurant specially prepared for theWirral Walking Festival.Booking essentialContact: 0151 342 1556Email: [email protected] station: Heswall
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Annual Wirral Coastal WalkSunday 11th MayCost (registration fee): £4 per walker / £1 per child aged 10 and underThe Wirral Coastal Walk is your chance to raise money for the charity of yourchoice. Join the 3,000 people who every year participate in this event. Thewalk starts at Seacombe Ferry Terminal and finishes at Thurstaston CountryPark Visitor Centre, 15 miles in all. Entrants not wishing to do the full distancecan complete their Walks at any of the two Control Points: at Derby Pool (4Miles), King’s Gap (10 Miles).
Sponsorship forms are available from:• By letter to: VCA Wirral, 224 Liscard Road, Wallasey CH44 5TN• By phoning: 0151 353 9700 Monday to Friday - 9.30am to 4.30pm• By email: [email protected]• Download: via the website www.wirralcoastalwalk.org• Registration: 8.30am - 11am at Seacombe Ferry. Please ensure you
register to qualify for your certificate at the finish line.• Who Benefits: You raise money for the ‘good cause’ or charity of YOUR
choice through use of sponsorship form.• Return Trip: Free parking is available at Thurstaston from 8am on the day
of the Walk. There will be a limited number of buses between 1.30 pm and6pm from Thurstaston Country Park to West Kirby Station (£1 donation)and Seacombe Ferry Terminal (£3 donation).
• Gift Aid: The sponsorship form is designed to facilitate the use of Gift Aidwhere appropriate.
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Birkenhead ParkSundays, 11am. Cost: FREEA faster than usual walk, plus abeginner’s walk. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Birkenhead ParkMondays, 11am. Cost: FREEParticularly suitable for beginners. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Birkenhead ParkTuesdays, 7pm. Cost: FREEParticularly suitable for beginners. Meetat the Claughton Medical Centre.
WallaseyTuesday evenings, 7pm. Cost: FREEParticularly suitable for beginners.Meet at Grove Road Station.
Central ParkWednesdays, 10.30amCost: FREEAn easy walk suitable for all. Meet atthe Heart of Egremont Shop, Wallasey.
Port SunlightWednesdays, 11am. Cost: FREEParticularly suitable for beginners. Meet at Port Sunlight Station.
West KirbyWednesdays, 12noon. Cost: FREEParticularly suitable for beginners. Meet at Wirral Sailing Centre.
Royden ParkThursdays, 2.30pm. Cost: FREEA longer than usual walk - notsuitable for beginners. Meet at the car park.
Wirral Walking Festival 2014
Health WalksWirral health walks are FREE short, friendly, weekly walks for all, especiallythose new to walking. Meet new people and enjoy the beauty of Wirralwith our trained walk leaders. There’s no need to book but please arrive10 minutes early on your first walk to register. You need comfy shoes andwater if it is hot. Many of these walks continue throughout the year andadditional locations may be available. For current walks, please contactBirkenhead Park or go to www.walkingforhealth.org.uk
Contact for all the above walks:Tel: 0151 652 5197 Email: [email protected]
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Buggy Park FitnessCost: £3.10, free to Invigor8members
Looking to getback in shape,
make new friends and get fit atthe same time? Have a go today!We cater for all levels of fitnessand offer a choice of times andlocations to suit - plus, nobabysitter needed!
Mondays & Wednesdays, 10.30am - 11.30amAshton Park, West Kirby. Meet atthe tennis courts, Upper Park.(Except bank holidays)
Thursdays, 10.30am - 11.30amBirkenhead Park, Meet atBirkenhead Park Visitor Centre.Contact: Fiona Hanik 07769 674 718
Wirralside Walkers Walking GroupMonday 5th May, 2pmCost: £2.50
Come and join us for a leisurely, relaxingwalk exploring the
local area and history. Walks led bytrained walk leaders.Booking essentialContact: 0151 482 3456
Step Out Sponsored WalkWednesday 7th May, 10.30amCost: £5 (includes t-shirt & info pack)
To raise awareness ofStroke on Wirral pleasecome and join us for
our Step Out Event - a short walk inBirkenhead Park.Contact: 0151 625 7038Meet & Register at: Birkenhead ParkVisitor Centre, CH41 4HYNearest Station: Birkenhead Park
White Top Walkers Walking GroupMonday 19th May, 2pmCost: £2.50
Come and join us fora lengthy, vigorouswalk, exploring Wirral.
This walk involves ascents, descentsand stiles. Walks led by trained walk leaders.Booking essentialContact: 0151 482 3456
Summer Special - West KirbyFriday 23rd May, 11am – 2pm
With a choice of threedifferent walks to suit allabilities from a shortaccessible walk for
beginners to longer walks. All walkswill meet together in Ashton Park for lunch. Meet at: Car park next to Morrisonsat the end of Dee Lane, CH48 0QG.Contact: 0151 652 5197Email: [email protected] station: West Kirby
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Birkenhead ParkSaturday 3rd May, 10.30am - 11.45amCost: FREEApprox 2.5 miles. Hot drinks availablefrom the coffee shop after the trail.Contact: 0151 652 5197Meet at: Birkenhead Park Station,CH41 8BTFinishes at: B’head Park Visitor CentreEmail: [email protected] Station: Birkenhead Park
Arrowe Country ParkSaturday 10th May, 10.30am - 11.45amCost: FREEApprox 2.5 miles. Hot drinks will beavailable from the Red Rooms afterthe trail.Contact: 0151 652 5197Email: [email protected] at: Red Rooms Café, CH49 5LWFinishes at: Red Rooms CafeNearest Station: Upton
Victoria ParkSaturday 17th May, 10.30am - 11.45amCost: FREEApprox 1.5 miles. Contact: 0151 652 5197Email: [email protected] at: Bebington Road/AlbanyStreet Junction, CH42 0LQFinishes at: Cricket ClubNearest Station: Rock Ferry
Central ParkSaturday 24th May, 10.30am - 11.45amCost: FREEApprox 1.5 miles.Contact: 0151 652 5197Email: [email protected] at: Liscard Road Entrance,CH44 0BSFinishes at: Liscard Road EntranceNearest Station: Wallasey Village
BeechwoodSaturday 31st May, 10.30am - 12.15pmCost: FREEApprox 2.5 miles.Contact: 0151 652 5197Email: [email protected] at: Park and Ride BidstonStation, CH43 7RFFinishes at: Park & Ride Bidston StationNearest Station: Bidston
Wirral Walking Festival 2014
Outdoor Gym Trails
After a short walk intothe park, the group willfollow the trail on pathsto use various types of
equipment which are suitable for allabilities. Please note that these trailsare not suitable for children under 10years old. Please bring water and asmall towel. No dogs.
Wirral Park Fitness Buddies will be guiding Outdoor Gym Trails in parkswhere outdoor gym equipment has been installed.
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On the theme: Wirral Walks & Landmarks
Entries are invited for the Friends of Birkenhead Park
Do you like taking photographs? Do you like walking in Wirral?If so, this competition is for you. Photographs will be displayed in the Gallery
at Birkenhead Park Visitor Centre, and prizes will be awarded for the best.
Entries to be handed in between 5th - 13th April 2014.Exhibition dates: 26th April - 23rd May 2014
(Part of the Wirral Walking Festival 2014)
For competition rules and entry forms, please contactBirkenhead Park Visitor Centre, Birkenhead Park, Park Drive CH41 4HY
Email: [email protected]: 0151 652 5197 | Twitter: @BirkenheadPark1
Some images may be used to advertise Wirral Walking Festivals.
Photography Exhibition 2014
- Competition -
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Wirral Walking Festival 2014
Feedback FormWe hope you have enjoyed attending the 2014 Wirral Walking Festival andwelcome your feedback. Walk Leaders Feedback and Walk ParticipantsFeedback Forms can be completed or downloaded at:www.visitwirral.com/walkingfestival
We would love to see any photos or videos you have taken during the festival.Please tweet @visit_wirral and use the hashtag #wirralwalkfest or post yourphotos to www.facebook.com/LoveWirral
If you are unable to complete a feedback form online or download a copy,please take a couple of minutes to complete this short questionnaire andreturn it by hand to the Walk Leader, to Birkenhead Park Visitor Centre orThurstaston Visitor Centre. Alternatively post to Thurstaston Visitor Centre,Wirral Country Park, Station Road, Thurstaston, Wirral, CH48 1NG
1. How many walks did you attend?
2. How would you rate the Festival? Excellent Good Fair Poor
Please add your comments about the walk here
3. Did you book overnight accommodation to attend the 2014 Wirral Walking Festival? Yes No
4. Your postcode:
5. Would you like to receive information about the 2015 Wirral WalkingFestival? (We can only send you a 2015 brochure to an email address)
Email:
We would love to see any photos or videos you have taken during thefestival. Please tweet @visit_wirral and use the hashtag #wirralwalkfest or post your photos to www.facebook.com/LoveWirral
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