Oldest Health Walk Leader

Charlie Berry is probably the oldest health walk leader in England and Wales.

There is no 'standard model' for Let’s Walk Cymru volunteer walk leaders; they come in all shapes and sizes as well as a wide variety of ages. However, we have reason to believe that Charlie Berry of the Walkabout Wrexham scheme may be our oldest walk leader.

Last November, Charlie celebrated his 88^th birthday with a surprise tea organised by fellow walk leaders.

A grandfather and great-grandfather, Charlie not only leads health walks six days a week but also, with friends made through the scheme, he enjoys a longer weekly walk of 5 or 6 miles.

It was not always so.

I walked with the local Ramblers for 20 years but then I had a hip replacement and got arthritis in my knees. I couldn't manage the walks I had been used to and was at a loss about what to do. Luckily, my wife had heard of Walkabout Wrexham " I joined and soon became a walk leader. Charlie

Shortly after becoming a walk leader, Charlie's wife died and he increased the number of walks he led. Charlie doesn't lead every day but frequently acts as joint walk leader, walking at the back of the group to make sure that any problems are spotted early and dealt with promptly.

The therapy of it has been very beneficial. I have made some wonderful friends and it is they who have encouraged me to get out on longer walks. Charlie

Charlie is delighted to now be able to get back to some of the places where he used to ramble.

I'm fine as long as someone helps me over the stiles. Yesterday I walked up to 2,000 ft in the Berwyn mountains above Llangollen. It was misty in the valley by the river Dee but, as we rose above that, the sun came up. Charlie

Natalie Edwards, Walkabout Wrexham Coordinator, said:

Charlie is an exceptional walk leader who is a true inspiration to all who walk with the scheme. Groundwork is very lucky to have such a dedicated and active volunteer. Charlie not only helps to lead on many walks both weekly and monthly, he also makes an active contribution through helping to guide the scheme through the Steering Group. Charlie makes walkers, both new and experienced, feel very welcome; he is always exceptionally cheerful and a shining example of the benefits of walking and the impact of volunteers on the success of any scheme.

Compiled February 09