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Main Instructor:

Susan Spall

Hosted By:

Susan Spall

Walk Description:

Join us for this 10 km walk from the train station down to the Leeds and Liverpool canal which we walk along for a short distance before crossing over to. the Leigh Branch.

We will walk up here before detouring off to enjoy and explore the nature reserves that have been established after all the colliery workings had finnished.

Lovey tranquil areas full wildlife. We can sit for a time and enjoy the peace and quiet.  

Wigan flashes are lakes that have formed due to mining subsidence. First partially filled with colliery waste and ash from the Westwood Power station.

It is natural recolonisation and large-scale reclamation works that have helped heal the scars left over from the industrial revolution. 

Leigh Branch runs for seven miles from the bottom of Wigan Flight on the Leeds and Liverpool canal. Construction started in 1816 and completed in 1820 runs for 7 miles. The canal was primarily used for transporting coal, timber and agricultural goods and was an important link for the Lancashire and West Riding Coal fields.  

It is essential to register and book in advance online.

 

It is advisable to wear a bum bag with a water bottle or hydration pack. Do bring a high energy snack to have on the hoof or as soon as we finish. Wear comfortable clothing that suitable for the weather. Do wear sturdy grippy shoes.

We respect people`s busy agendas and do like to start promptly. Please arrive 5 minutes early for your class and be ready to start on time.

 

Walk speed guide:

Gentle stroll - Gear 1 - Nice pace that you can do for extended periods. 2-2.5mph (these generally are our Wellness walks)   Easy walk - Gear 2 - Faster pace gained through technique. Expect Gear 2 at times throughout the walk with occasional photo stops. 2.5mph (Most of our 1-hour Explorer walks)   Moderate walk - Gear 2/3 - Faster again using technique and with less recovery. Very little stopping. 2.5mph-3mph+ (these are generally Total Body Walx, but also explore this pace on our Explorer and Adventure walks)   Strenuous walk - gear 3/4  (these are generally Total Body Walx, but also explore this pace on our Explorer and Adventure walks).

You are asked to contact your WALX Guide by phone, leaving a voicemail or sending an sms text to the number listed below, if you are likely to be delayed as we do start classes promptly.

Whilst we do understand that sometimes it is not possible to make a class, please be aware that we do operate a no refund policy if you give us less than 2 hours’ notice.

All activities are undertaken at your own risk. We cannot be held responsible for any injuries or accidents incurred. We undertake to deliver all classes with qualified staff and have made every effort to risk assess all WALX. On occasions it is necessary to make dynamic risk assessment decisions when there is a localised incident such as trees fallen en route, flooding, traffic changes, etc.

Please ensure your PARQ is up to date and notify us in writing if you have any change to your medical records, or physical or mental wellbeing. This should include any surgery, falls, knocks, or accidents. Thank you.

Contact details (only contact to notify if late or cancelling)

Matt 07530 813225

 

Location Notes:

Wigan North Western railway station.