Our new six week summer ‘walk and talk’ programme got off to a relaxed start on Monday 11 August. Ever mindful of making the most of all our senses, we were delighted to welcome Sophie from Wonder in Nature to lead our first walk. This taster session explored the senses such as sound, touch and smell by getting up close and personal with the nature all around us and beneath our feet.
This first walk took place in West Smethwick Park. Members were encouraged to remove their shoes if they were comfortable in doing so and to stop, close their eyes and open their ears to the sounds of the park. We walked on the fresh cut and dried grass and on the fallen leaves from various trees that grow in the park.
We also experienced the different temperatures to be found in both direct sunlight and in shade.
After walking a little way through the park we stood by the lake and listened again to the sounds we could identify.
We were encouraged to touch the trees and we tried to identify the ones we could feel and see.
We were very fortunate that the weather was wonderful, with lots of sunshine and shadows. The walk was very interesting and made everyone think more about how they could take more notice of their surroundings and of the nature that is always easily to hand even in an urban setting.
Following the walk, we had a short feedback session where Sophie handed out strawberries to stimulate people’s taste buds.
We are looking forward to the next walks, which will take us to various locations in Sandwell with a focus on some of the hidden histories of the area.
Thanks to funding from Sandwell Active Travel, we’ve been able to welcome back Nigel Self on a temporary basis to organise this short programme of walks.
