A WALKING club has celebrated its 80th anniversary by walking 80 miles across some of the most beautiful countryside in England.

The Darlington CHA & HF Rambling Club was launched in 1936 under its formal name of Darlington Countryside Holiday Association and Holiday Fellowship. There were originally around 50 members and that has now grown to 100.

Club chairman, former Hurworth GP Dr Ian Bagshaw, said the club was looking for an appropriate way to celebrate the 80th milestone and it was decided to walk the Dales Way which is just over 80 miles.

Darlington and Stockton Times:

MILESTONE: Members celebrate with a country walk

The route, between Ilkley and Bowness in the Lake District, was walked over seven Sundays in the lead up to the anniversary and each walker was presented with a badge to mark their achievement.

Dr Bagshaw said: “A post walk celebratory meal was enjoyed at The Horse and Farrier Inn at Threlkeld and it really was an enjoyable way to mark the anniversary.”

The club also recently organised a walk in Reeth to celebrate the 80th birthdays of four members.

On Sunday, December 18, there will be a Christmas walk from Brafferton to Barmpton, with mulled wine and carols along the way.

Dr Bagshaw, who has been chairman for nine years, said new members are welcome, saying: “It’s a really friendly, welcoming club and a great way not only to keep fit and healthy but to make friends.”

The club has recently linked up with Teesside University, with students helping to modernise its website and a prize on offer for the winning design.

On Saturdays, pick-up for the walks is from outside EDW Homes in Coniscliffe Road, Darlington, at 9.45 and, on Sundays, it’s from outside the former Arts Centre in Vane Terrace at 9.15.

Anyone interested in joining the club or wanting further information can find details at www.darlingtonchahf.com