In 2015 the KLPA published Wild Swimming Walks, in co-operation with Wild Things Publishing. This described 28 lake, river and seaside days out by train from London and was very popular with KLPA members and other Heath swimmers.
The publishers are thinking of reprinting the book and are open to making small amendments. Have you spotted a direction that doesn’t make sense or found a stile replaced by a gate? Were you disappointed that a suggested swimming place is hopelessly overgrown or too shallow? Did you notice nearby a better swimming spot than the one suggested? These are the sort of things we would love to hear about.
We are especially interested to hear from anyone who may have done the Winchfield to Hook walk in the last few years as the swimming places there were already a bit unreliable and one person has said they found even a shallow swim was impossible, while we know the canal sometimes has algae problems. Of course, we also want to correct any typos that sharp eyes may have spotted.
Unfortunately this is not a chance to add new walks, although the editor Margaret Dickinson is always keen to hear of new swimming spots. We did offer the publishers a sequel with a new batch of swim/walks but they declined.
If, when doing any of the walks, you have noticed anything that needs changing please let Margaret know at mdickinson@ndirect.co.uk, or on 020 7485 1457.
We have been asked again to remind swimmers to observe the safe-distancing measures in place at the Ladies’ Pond. This is to help keep the bathing ponds open through winter, in the context of increased COVID-19 infection rates and new restrictions elsewhere. Please: –
– Do not arrive at the gate in groups of more than six.
–Do not crowd in under the gazebos in breach of safe-distancing requirements (more gazebos and benches have now arrived).
-Respect others’ space, do not place your belongings on top of theirs.
-Dispose of rubbish in the correct place or take it home with you.
Following these measures will help keep the Ladies’ Pond open this winter. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP.