Walking at Potterne Park on Tuesday 20th October 2026 

then refreshments at The Swans, Verwood.

The biggest challenge facing us today was, should we walk or shouldn't we walk? The previous evening's challenge had already been met, when we were told by the booked venue that cakes couldn't be provided nor could we bring our own.

A huge part of our time together is walking, talking and enjoying delicious cakes to round off our afternoon. So at 21.55 on Monday night, when Julie and Carl at The Swans, Verwood, offered to provide us coffee, tea and a selection of cakes, we thought we had won the lottery.....and we had somewhere to meet on Tuesday afternoon. Thank you both ever so much for making such a kind offer. A huge thank you also to Jackie, who despite the bar being exceptionally busy, I could hear all the background noise, she did nip upstairs, check with the managers and phoned me back.  I am still struggling to believe how accommodating you all were....a huge THANK YOU from all of us.

The rain was off and on, on Tuesday, and even when it was raining it varied between heavy and light. The first decision was to postpone our pick up by 30 minutes then when we arrived at Potterne Park, we took a short walk, in waterproofs and under umbrellas, then headed off to be warmly received at The Swans.

The tables had been arranged so that we were all facing each other, much easier to chat and show off some beautiful wedding photos, the coffee and tea were ready for pouring and the selection of cakes was tremendous. The welcome we received from Julie and Carl was second to none. Some of us said it almost seemed like Christmas despite the Halloween costumes on show. So many lovely comments from us regarding the gorgeous tea pots, we felt very spoilt indeed.

Our PALS thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere, the choice of cakes and of course just spending some quality time together. We will definitley be returning when we are next walking locally, hopefully not in the rain.

Juilie, Carl and Jackie, so glad we chatted when you arrived to begin your shift, you guys deserve a huge applause for going the extra mile for a lovely group of people who appreciated all that you did. THANK YOU.

             Walking on the Forest at Hyde on Tuesday 6th October 2026

Fifteen of us met and parked at The Potting Shed before heading off for a lovely walk on the Forest. There were in fact two walks taking place and thankfully we managed to return to the cafe at the same time. How talented are we!

The weather was warm and dry. In fact only a few of us chose to wear a jacket...for the beginning of October, it was unusually mild. Lots of talking, as usual, and some catching up to do as a few of us have been on holiday so stories were being shared.  

Once again we were well looked after by the staff at The Potting Shed as we enjoyed our cuppa and delicious cake. Thank you all once again.