A walk with a difference today, when Wick Wanderers joined a walk around the Ogmore and Southerndown area to celebrate 70 years of The Samaritans, and in particular 50 years of The Bridgend branch. Although it was good as a group to support a charity, this one was extra special as we have Wick Wanderers members and their families personally involved with the Samaritans work.
Sixteen of us met at The Three Golden Cups, and were greeted by Chris Jones who was leading the walk.
We listened to talks from Wendy, the Director of Bridgend Samaritans, and Neil the Welsh Executive Director. Fortified by a delicious breakfast roll courtesy of “The Cups”, our group quickly integrated with the other walkers for the 6.5 mile walk that lay ahead. Our route took us down into Southerndown, into Dunraven Castle, through woods and farmland to The Pitcot Pool in St Brides.
Local Historian, Graham Loveluck- Edwards kept us entertained and informed at several points enroute with his myths, legends and folk lore.
A refreshment stop in St Brides was well recieved, as it was rather warm and we had battled through rather strong wind in several places. The Samaritan’s bus topped our water bottles up (all walkers had been gifted with a smart bottle at the start of the walk). We then climbed up onto Ogmore Down, across the edge of the golf course before descending to Ogmore Castle.
Historical tales from Graham ensued, before we headed back via the sandy paths of Pant Mari Flanders, pausing at the finely preserved Well to listen to our final informative legend. Heol y Mynydd with its glorious coastal views led us back to our starting point.
Such a delightful day, with excellent company.
Thank you to all who made it happen, those that supported the event, and to photographer Gildas Griffiths who recorded the day. https://www.facebook.com/100005253608879/videos/242522008539655/
Wick Wanderers 