The Foot & Mouth outbreak in 2001 was a major crisis for country folk.  Our Deanery Chair, Catherine Cavender, called a meeting in Ilminster to seek ways to help ("new ways of being church").  Subsequently the idea to develop a series of circular walks that took in a variety of local churches was floated to the Deanery Synod, and warmly grasped.  24 walkers have freely given some 750 hours to walk, write up, proof walk and then way mark the 22 walks that will be made available in May.

However, thanks to the skill and determination of the project team the Walks Project is ready for launch in May. 

 “The Deanery Walks should bring tangible and intangible benefits for each parish” the Rural Dean remarked at the recent Deanery Synod.  “The Team should be congratulated for working with a large number of interested parties, encouraging sponsors, and getting the project ready for launch in May.”

 Sir Ranulph Fiennes, a famous walker skilled in traversing countryside a little less accessible than the Somerset paths and lanes, has written a superb foreword for the guide.  “We are most grateful for his support and encouragement,” said Ross Coad, Deanery Walks chief. 

 28 schools in the Deanery were invited to design a 'passport' stamp for each village that reflects the history and spirit of the village.  This in itself has promoted an ‘identity’ debate within the villages and will probably have a positive effect on the sense of community. 

 The Walks and the Deanery Parish maps have been distributed to the 46 Parishes and are selling well.  A pack  consists of an outer folder, 22 insert sheets each with one walk, and a passport and cost £4.75. 

These are available from business outlets and churches within the Deanery or from the Rural Communities Regeneration Group. 

For more detailed information on all this go to www.churchwalks.org.uk

Thank You!

Many thanks for the support by the sponsors, and special thanks to those who walked the walks and have offered wise advice along the way; and those who have sponsored us either by making donations or taking advertising space in the 'passport.’ 

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Copyright © 2008 Crewkerne and Ilminster Deanery