THE Correspondent is striving hard to become an accepted member of the community.
That is why staff are not slaves to their laptops or regularly desk bound.
We are out and about in the area as much as possible, meeting people, making contacts and attending events.
So, when our accounts executive and Shaw local Andy Black announced he was off to Crompton Moor for a bimble, we thought it would be in ideal opportunity to sample one of the 400 free guided walks on offer during the month-long Greater Manchester Walking Festival.
Andy duly donned his waterproofs and laced up his hiking boots to join the ‘Oldham, Let’s-go-for-a-walk’ team (part of the national ‘Walking for Health’ initiative) for a short but stunning ramble across the local beauty spot.
Andy reports: “Anita Lee has been leading walks on Crompton Moor each Wednesday for around two years now.
“Weather conditions were wet and windy and so numbers were low.
“I was accompanied by Anita and hardy weekly regulars Gill and Alec. Walks take place whatever the weather and on sunny days numbers get to double figures.
“It is hoped the current GM Walking Festival will help to attract more.
“Our walk started with quite a steep climb until we eventually reached the ‘trig’ point at the Crow Hill summit where communication masts are sited.
“Views from here are superb. Anita told me you can see well into Cheshire on a clear day.
There are numerous paths so each week the walks are slightly different.
“You will never get lost up here though,’ said Anita. “I wasn’t so sure.
“As ever with these activities you make new friends and Gill and Alec enhanced my knowledge of the local nature and wildlife scene on the moor.
“Gill tells me wimberries are in season soon and those of Crompton Moor are delicious. Overall, a really enjoyable afternoon.”