Hi fellow Trekkers,

It seems the period of merriment and excess we have been waiting patiently for all year is finally upon us! On Saturday evening (12th December) the Tapestri restaurant in Swansea played host to 26 festive trekkers, dressed up to the nines, and eager for fun. By all accounts a great night was had by all and thanks are extended to Dylan for organising this Christmas extravaganza. Dylan was otherwise pre-occupied with being ill however, and was unable to attend in person and only in spirit.Three cheers to the lad!

"Beyond St. Clears" was the title of Graham's splendid post -walk analysis of last weeks walk (8th December). Famous for leading walks of unparralled intricacy and precision far from the madding crowd, Graham's most recent offering appears to have lived up to expectations, serving up " a farmyard deep in slurry, thorns and brambles, some cheeky little hills, and a walk length that proved mysteriously longer than the advertised ten miles" (G.Rutt 2014). Nine intrepids were in attendance for this one, although three were apparently lost towards the end. But such is life! Thanks Graham for extending your reach yet again!

This Sunday (14th December) Dave followed with his famous "Gluvine" walk around the woods of Margam Park. The rain and heavy mud did nothing to dampen the spirits of our little group, neither did the temporary loss of Luca the dog, or the antics of the ever disobedient Yogi (another, much smaller dog)! Lunch was taken in the ruins of the church over-looking the majestic Margam Park house, a hastily assembled fire adding much needed warmth and additional cheer.Tentative carols were sung around this fire and all was well. Post-walk drinks were taken around the roaring fire of The Prince of Wales public house in Kenfig.Thanks in abundance go to Dave for this one!

Robert picks up compass and map for next weeks walk (21st December) which is advertised as "taking in parts of the valeways Millenium heritage trail". The highlight of this walk will be a stop over at Beaupre castle, where, if lucky we will get to meet and share mince pies with the one and only Dr.Who! Miss this walk and you will be exterminated!!! You have been warned! The meeting places for this walk are 9.30 a.m. at the civic centre, Swansea or 10.15 a.m. at the Tardis (sorry, phone box) on Bridge Road in Llanblethian. For more information Robert (Hall) can be contacted on 07981 963 661.

That's all for now folks. Seasonal greetings and all that,

Paul