When Kerry told me she was happy to write up her walk of Italy’s St Francis’ Way, I was delighted on two counts. First because it would make a great story. Second, because selfishly, I want to do it too. We don’t have to be hard core all the time, and who doesn’t become a better person when faced with Italian hospitality. Except maybe the breakfasts…

And aren’t the photos fabulous!

I was equally delighted to find that Stephanie had another great walking poem she was happy to share. I bet nearly everyone reading it will remember a time when they were in the same position. She’s put into verse a moment we can probably all relate to.

Then there’s John’s piece on Matthew Flinders. The connections with our retired members run deep and I know many of us are glad to hear from them regularly. They guided our first walks, kept our club running, and continue to harbour knowledge of benefit to us all. This is a great example.

This edition’s ‘From the archive’ is a summary of climbs of Mount Zeil, an Australian giant not far from Alice Springs. Judging by the frequency of our visits, it’s one of our spiritual homes and hopefully this collection will be a resource for further ascents.

Lastly, I’ve written an explainer of the club’s qualification policy. I know as a relatively new member that it puts a lot of people off joining us. I hope this will help clear up some of the common misconceptions.

I also hope you make the most of the last few months of walking in this beautiful Spring sunshine.