Stiles, smiles and miles: Glossop's inter-church ladies walking group turns 20

A popular Glossop ladies’ walking group is celebrating two decades of friendship, fresh air and fundraising. 

The Glossop Inter-Church Ladies Walking Group was formed in 2006 and has welcomed members from churches across the town ever since. That tradition continues today, with women from many different congregations coming together each week to enjoy the local countryside. 

The very first walk took place on Shrove Tuesday, 28th February 2006, around Mossy Lea - a route that remains a firm favourite during the summer months. 

Now, 20 years on, the group is proud to still have several active founder members, some now in their 80s, and one lady approaching her 92nd birthday. 

The walkers meet most Tuesday afternoons and are rarely put off by the weather. “We are not deterred by a little Glossop rain!” said a member, and the group heads out whatever the conditions. 

Over the years the ladies have built strong friendships. Describing themselves as a warm and supportive group, they say they are always happy to share joys and sorrows and lend each other a helping hand - “not just over the stiles we find on our walks!” 

As well as enjoying regular walks, the group has supported a range of good causes. They have raised money for charities, taken part in Fair Trade events and completed sponsored steps for CAFOD. 

The walkers also enjoy occasional days out together and in recent years have visited places such as RHS Garden Bridgewater, Salford Quays and the Castlefield Viaduct Garden. 

To mark their 20th anniversary, past and present members will come together for a special celebration. A buffet lunch is being held at Windy Harbour Farm Restaurant on Shrove Tuesday, 17th February. 

After two decades enjoying the great outdoors, the group is looking forward to many more years of walking, laughter and friendship.