Local Rambler wins Civic Award

West Berks Rambler Fiona Walker (third from left) has won this year’s Civic Award from Newbury Town Council for her community work to improve the condition and access to West Berkshire’s footpaths. As a long-standing member of the West Berks Ramblers she has organised volunteers to clear footpaths, encouraged more people to enjoy the countryside and continues to co-ordinate the production and research of walking guides. Nothing new in that you might add, but what has made her work so special is that much of her voluntary work has been aimed at helping and encouraging disadvantaged people to be more active and to get out into the countryside

Originally working with the mental health charity MENCAP, Fiona subsequently became a member of the Rangers Official Active Response (ROAR) group which offers services to adults with learning difficulties. Volunteering her services for 12 hours each week for a number of years she has encouraged members of the group to volunteer 1,500 hours each year to help clear footpaths on a parish by parish basis throughout West Berkshire.

It is this community spirit which led to Fiona winning this year’s Newbury’s Civic Award. Presented by the mayor, Phil Barnett, Fiona’s response was to say that she was so surprised adding “I feel there are other people who do so much more for the community. It’s a hobby. It’s a social occasion. We have a lovely team and I just feel that you should not get an award for having so much fun.” We don’t agree! Few have done as much as Fiona to help others and especially those with disabilities to be more active and getting out to enjoy the countryside. All at West Berks Ramblers congratulate Fiona for all her work.

Greg McGill is Countryside Officer for West Berks Ramblers