Page 41 - Yachter Spring 2023

TRADITIONAL
CHRISTMAS WALK FROM GINS CLUBHOUSE
The weather forecast had been looking grim, but we had all hoped that the meteorologists had got it wrong and that the high winds and torrential rain might blow through, either before or after our traditional Xmas Walk from Gins.
Stuart, our Clubhouse Manager, and I
were expecting lots of cancellations for the walk but no – this was not the case - and when I arrived at the Clubhouse just before 10.30am on 28th December there was a good crowd already, enjoying the warming mulled wine and getting their wet weather gear and sturdy boots on ready for the trek.
Armed with maps (not really needed as most know the way) a jolly bunch of us
set off at a particularly good pace to keep warm in torrential rain and near gale force winds, to walk the 4.5-mile loop along Park Shore into the Nature Reserve, behind Lord Montagu’s beautiful Beach Hut and back along Warren Lane.
Peter Stagg, the Estate Gamekeeper, had given permission and kindly opened the gate for us to access the Nature Reserve at the end of Park Shore.This gate is normally locked, and area prohibited to the public, to protect migrating and rare birds that inhabit the area. In previous years Members had taken time to observe the wildlife, but given the weather conditions we didn’t see much wildlife activity and to be honest weren’t hanging around as we were nearly knocked off our feet by the winds and the driving rain. Instead, we stuck religiously to the path keeping all dogs on leads and quick marched to get back to the Clubhouse and welcome respite from the persistent rain.
A sensible few had brought change of clothes but others, like me, hadn’t. It didn’t matter as the food was so good and with a few glasses of wine to accompany a delicious venison casserole, meant we completely forgot how wet we were and just enjoyed the occasion.
Although it was awful weather and could’ve been a washout, it was great to see the Clubhouse packed full of fresh-faced, happy people coming together to enjoy a wonderful day out.
Virginia Boyle
Rear Commodore House
SOCIAL REPORTS 41