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Walking Club Visits Brierley Park : A Refreshing Local Stroll

A large, partially frozen lake reflecting the winter sky, surrounded by bare trees, with ducks floating on the unfrozen water in the distance.
A green sign reading "Welcome to Brierley Forest Park" stands against a backdrop of tall, leafless trees under a clear blue sky.

Recently Walking Club took us on a scenic stroll around the beautiful Brierley Park. With fresh air, good company, and a chance to stretch our legs, it was the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors while staying active.

A smiling woman in a grey coat stands in a grassy area surrounded by wooden and stone sculptures, including a large carved seed and a tree trunk with an embedded relief carving.

As we walked through the park, we took in the peaceful surroundings, spotting wildlife and appreciating the changing seasons. The gentle pace made it accessible for everyone, and the opportunity to chat along the way made it a lovely social experience too.

Three people, dressed warmly in jackets and hoodies, pose together for a selfie during their walk along a scenic countryside path, with hedgerows and trees in the background.

Walking is a fantastic way to boost both physical and mental well-being, and our regular meet-ups offer a great chance to connect with others while exploring the local area. Whether you’re looking to stay fit, meet new people, or simply enjoy nature, we’d love to have you join us on our next walk!

A close-up selfie of two people smiling outdoors, with a well-trodden walking path and trees in the background.

📍 Come along next time! See you there! 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️

#BrierleyPark #WalkingClub #StayActive #CommunityWalks #HealthyLiving

🚶‍♂️ Tuesday Walking Club 🚶‍♀️

🚶‍♂️ Tuesday Morning Walking Club 🚶‍♀️

📅 Tuesday Mornings

📍 Location:
🌍 Varies

💰 Free
🫶 All are welcome!

ℹ️ For more information, contact:
📞 01623 397750
📧 info@challangect.co.uk

📝 Note: Timings are approximate, and the location varies. Please call to confirm for each session.

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Tuesday Walking Club – Carsington Water

Several sailboats moored along the edge of Carsington Water, surrounded by rocky terrain and grassy fields, with the horizon framed by hills and clouds.

Our Tuesday Walking Club kicked off the year with a steady and enjoyable walk along Carsington Water Dam. The crisp air and stunning views made it a wonderful day to reconnect with nature and each other.

This year, we’re excited to introduce something new to our walks – a dedicated camera to capture our adventures! Each week, a different member will take a turn behind the lens, experimenting with their own unique style and perspective. Once everyone gets the hang of the camera, we’re looking forward to seeing the variety of creative photos that will document our journeys.

For our first outing, Raymond was our photographer. He captured some fantastic shots (see below). It’s a great way to add a little extra creativity to our walks and to preserve the memories we make together.

After the walk, we ended the day on a cosy note in the café, enjoying coffee and our packed lunches. It was the perfect way to wrap up a successful first outing.

Here’s to many more wonderful walks this year with the Tuesday Walking Club!

Raymonds photographs…

A person standing behind a wooden post, holding a camera, with Carsington Water and sailboats visible in the distance.
A person standing behind a wooden post, holding a camera, with Carsington Water and sailboats visible in the distance.
A moss-covered wooden post with a green sign marking "11 km," situated on a grassy path.
A moss-covered wooden post with a green sign marking “11 km,” situated on a grassy path.
Several sailboats moored along the edge of Carsington Water, surrounded by rocky terrain and grassy fields, with the horizon framed by hills and clouds.
Several sailboats moored along the edge of Carsington Water, surrounded by rocky terrain and grassy fields, with the horizon framed by hills and clouds.
A wooden signpost showing directions to the Millfields car park, Visitor Centre, Dam Trail, and Sailing Club, with trees and a pathway in the background.
A wooden signpost showing directions to the Millfields car park, Visitor Centre, Dam Trail, and Sailing Club, with trees and a pathway in the background.
A person wearing a cream-coloured jacket standing on a grassy field with a pathway, wooden bench, and trees in the background, under a bright sky.
A person wearing a cream-coloured jacket standing on a grassy field with a pathway, wooden bench, and trees in the background, under a bright sky.
The draw-off tower situated in the reservoir with cloudy skies and surrounding hills, captured from the grassy edge
The draw-off tower situated in the reservoir with cloudy skies and surrounding hills, captured from the grassy edge
Two dark-coloured birds (likely coots) swimming peacefully on the calm surface of Carsington Water, with soft ripples around them.
Two dark-coloured birds (likely coots) swimming peacefully on the calm surface of Carsington Water, with soft ripples around them.
Three people standing on a pathway near the water with a clear blue sky. One is wearing a cream coat, another in a green fleece with a hat, and the third in a dark jacket and beanie, all smiling on a sunny day.
Three people standing on a pathway near the water with a clear blue sky. One is wearing a cream coat, another in a green fleece with a hat, and the third in a dark jacket and beanie, all smiling on a sunny day.

Other pictures taken by Cayton…

A view of leafless trees with the bright winter sun peeking through the branches and a clear blue sky in the background.
A view of leafless trees with the bright winter sun peeking through the branches and a clear blue sky in the background.
A woman wearing a cream coat and glasses, smiling warmly, standing on a paved path with trees and a grassy field behind her.
A woman wearing a cream coat and glasses, smiling warmly, standing on a paved path with trees and a grassy field behind her.
A man in a green fleece and purple hat with his arm around a smiling woman in a black coat, standing on a pathway with trees in the background.
A man in a green fleece and purple hat with his arm around a smiling woman in a black coat, standing on a pathway with trees in the background.
A man in a green fleece and purple hat walking along a muddy forest path with bare trees on either side.
A man in a green fleece and purple hat walking along a muddy forest path with bare trees on either side.
Two men, one in a green fleece and one in a brown coat, walking on a gravel pathway with a grassy field and boats visible in the distance.
Two men, one in a green fleece and one in a brown coat, walking on a gravel pathway with a grassy field and boats visible in the distance.
A man in a brown coat and blue hat giving a double thumbs up, standing in front of a pay station and trees with the reservoir in the background.
A man in a brown coat and blue hat giving a double thumbs up, standing in front of a pay station and trees with the reservoir in the background.
A group of four people in winter coats, smiling and standing close together on a hilltop with a countryside view behind them.
A group of four people in winter coats, smiling and standing close together on a hilltop with a countryside view behind them.
A man in a black coat and hat standing on a grassy field near the edge of the reservoir with hills and a blue sky in the distance.
A man in a black coat and hat standing on a grassy field near the edge of the reservoir with hills and a blue sky in the distance.
Two women, one in a cream coat and glasses, the other in a black coat, standing close together with the reservoir and hills in the background.
Two women, one in a cream coat and glasses, the other in a black coat, standing close together with the reservoir and hills in the background.
A tranquil view of Carsington Water with still water, grassy hills, and a partly cloudy sky.
A tranquil view of Carsington Water with still water, grassy hills, and a partly cloudy sky.

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🌟 Exciting News for 2025! 🌟

2025

We’ve got a fantastic line-up of activities planned for the new year, including:

🌿 Gardening Club – Get your hands dirty and grow something amazing!
🚶‍♂️ Walking Club – Explore the outdoors and stay active with friends.
🏠 Life Skills at the Community Hub – Learn something new and build confidence!

…and so much more to look forward to! 🎉

Keep an eye on our website for updates and details coming soon. Let’s make 2025 a year full of growth, fun, and connection! 🌟

Please get in touch if you’d like to join us!!

#CommunityActivities #GetInvolved #Exciting2025 #Gardening #Walking #LifeSkills

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Walking Club’s Year in Review: 2024 Adventures 🎉🚶‍♂️🌿

Walking Club Montage of the past year

As we reflect on 2024, our Walking Club has enjoyed numerous memorable adventures. Here’s a look back at some of our highlights:

🌧️ April: Embracing Nature’s Beauty

Out and About with Walking Club: We embarked on a five-mile circular journey, combining parts of the Trans Pennine Trail and the Cuckoo Way. Despite intermittent showers, our spirits remained high, and we concluded our trek with coffee and cake at the Hollinwood Hub Cafe. ☕🍰

🌺 June: A Day at Newstead Abbey

The Latest from Walking Club – Thanks to Cayton and Louise! We enjoyed a leisurely day at Newstead Abbey, soaking in vibrant colours and rich history. The day ended with delightful treats at the teashop, making it a 10/10 experience. 🌳✨

🌳 August: Exploring Pleasley Vale

Walking Club – Pleasley Vale: Our walk took us around Pleasley Vale and its historic mills. We enjoyed the shade of overhanging trees and shared stories of the area’s rich history, concluding with a visit to the Mansfield Wildlife Centre. 🏞️🐾

🏔️ September: Conquering Peaks

Tuesday Walking Club Conquers Mam Tor!! We reached the summit of Mam Tor, enjoying panoramic views of the Peak District. The clear skies and gentle breeze made this challenging hike a favourite among members. 🌤️

Walking Club Adventure: Exploring Elvaston Castle: We ventured to the grounds of Elvaston Castle, exploring its rich history and sprawling woodlands, making it a perfect spot for our adventure. 🏰🌿

🍂 October: Historical Walks and Nature’s Splendour

Tuesday Walking Club – Stanton Moor: Our group enjoyed a 2.5-mile walk through farmland to Stanton Moor, spotting local wildlife and taking in stunning panoramas, including the Nine Ladies stone circle. 🌄🐦

Walking Club Visits Vicar Water Country Park: A pleasant 2.5-mile walk around Vicar Water Country Park, exploring various trails and concluding with refreshments at Rumbles Café. 🌳☕

🍁 November: Scenic Trails and Friendly Encounters

A Day Out with Walking Club: Exploring Tansley Knoll, Matlock: We explored Tansley Knoll in Matlock, enjoying historic mills, scenic waterfalls, and friendly animals, ending the day at a local garden centre. 🐾🏞️

🎄 December: Festive Spirit

Belper Walk with Walking Club: We explored the town of Belper, known for its rich industrial heritage and picturesque surroundings, including a fun stop at a larger-than-life statue of Mr Potato Head. 🎅🛤️

As we look forward to 2025, we invite more members to join our Walking Club. Whether you’re seeking physical well-being, mental health benefits, or social interaction, our club offers a supportive and enriching experience tailored to all abilities. Stay tuned for our upcoming adventures! 🚶‍♂️💚✨

Call us on 01623 397750

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A Walk Around Chatsworth House Grounds

Recently our walking club enjoyed a three-mile walk around the beautiful grounds of Chatsworth House. The route included a steep climb to the Tower via uneven steps, which proved challenging for some. While the fitter among us reached the top with ease, others took it at a more relaxed pace, with plenty of breaks to enjoy the scenery. The views from the top made the effort worthwhile.

An older woman with glasses and short grey hair sits at an outdoor café table, holding a pastry in one hand. In front of her is a festive takeaway cup with a reindeer design. Behind her, stone arches are decorated with twinkling lights, and people can be seen walking through the area.
A wide-angle shot of an older woman with glasses and a green padded coat standing in front of a rock formation with small waterfalls. The area is surrounded by woodland with moss-covered rocks, trees, and a forest path leading further into the scene.
A group of four people pose near a sign reading "House & Garden Entrances" at Chatsworth House. The group consists of an older woman in a green coat, a woman in a grey coat and yellow t-shirt, a man in a red beanie and blue jacket, and another man in a brown coat holding a small device. The background features parked cars and the rolling hills of Chatsworth.
A man in a red beanie and blue checkered jacket sits at an outdoor café table, smiling with his eyes closed. Behind him, a festive wire Christmas tree lit with golden lights stands in front of a stone building. Other people are seen walking around the market area.
Three people stand near the "House & Garden Entrances" sign at Chatsworth House. From left to right: an older woman in a green coat and glasses, a man in a red beanie and blue checkered jacket, and a man in a brown coat holding a small device. Behind them are parked cars, a stone building, and rolling hills.

At the Tower, we discovered a painted hidden rock on top of a brick shed, marked #NorthumberlandRock. We’ll rehide it during another walk to continue the fun for others.

The walk took us along peaceful footpaths and past waterfalls before looping back to our starting point. We ended the morning with coffee and cake at the café—a satisfying finish to a lovely outing.

Great company and good weather made for a memorable day. Until next time!

If you’d like to join Walking Club, please speak to your Community Support Worker or give us a call on 01623 397750.

An older woman with glasses and a green padded coat stands in front of a rock formation with small waterfalls. Above her, a person with an orange backpack and jeans stands triumphantly on the rock, smiling. The surrounding area is filled with trees and moss.
Two men stand on a grassy verge beside a road near Chatsworth House. One man wears a red beanie and a blue checkered jacket, while the other wears a brown coat and navy beanie, holding a small device. A sign reading "House & Garden Entrances" stands nearby, with cars and buildings in the background.
Four people pose in front of the Chatsworth House grounds. The group includes an older woman in a green coat, a woman in a grey coat and yellow t-shirt, a man in a red beanie and blue checkered jacket, and another man in a brown coat holding a small device. The sign behind them points toward the House & Garden entrances.
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A Festive Success at This Year’s Christmas Fair!

Santa Claus interacting with attendees at a lively Christmas celebration, with festive decorations, including a bulletin board and holiday posters, in the background.

What a fantastic turnout we had at this year’s Christmas Fayre! A huge thank you to everyone who came along and supported the event – you made it truly special.

We’d also like to give a big shoutout to Santa and his naughty elves for bringing some festive cheer (and a few giggles!). Of course, none of it would have been possible without the wonderful people who worked so hard behind the scenes to make it all happen – thank you for your dedication and effort.

A special highlight this year was seeing some of our service users getting involved with their own stalls. They sold some incredible handmade items, including cakes, book Christmas trees, and adorable hedgehogs. It was wonderful to see their creativity and hard work shining through.

The day was a team effort, and we couldn’t be prouder of everyone who contributed. Thank you all for making this year’s fair such a success – here’s to even more fun next year!

A bustling room with Christmas stalls and visitors browsing items. A woman in a Santa hat stands in the foreground, while others are engaged in conversation and shopping.
A table featuring handmade crafts, including folded book Christmas trees and hedgehogs with Santa hats, alongside a variety of festive cupcakes and treats.
A smiling woman wearing a Santa hat and a shimmering silver top, posing for the camera in a festive setting.
A display table with festive mugs, tumblers, and gift items, surrounded by Christmas decorations, including red tinsel hanging on the wall.
Santa Claus and elves entertaining a group of people in a festive room filled with holiday decorations and a television in the background.
An elf in a green costume dancing with a smiling older woman in a cosy room decorated with holiday-themed crafts and posters.
A cheerful elderly woman sitting in a chair, smiling at the camera while others in the room enjoy a festive gathering.
A room filled with people engaged in a holiday party, with some seated and others dancing. Festive hats, drinks, and snacks are visible on the tables.
Santa Claus interacting with attendees at a lively Christmas celebration, with festive decorations, including a bulletin board and holiday posters, in the background.
A group of people sitting in a cosy room near a large window decorated with festive ornaments. One person in a colourful Christmas jumper and Santa hat is sipping from a can, while others, wrapped in blankets, enjoy the holiday atmosphere. Tables in front of them hold cups, sweets, and small snacks.
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A Short Walk Around Matlock

Members of Walking Club enjoyed a leisurely day out in Matlock, which turned out to be the perfect mix of relaxation and festivity!

An informational sign for the Lover’s Walk trail, detailing the history and layout of the scenic route explored by the CET Walking Club

The crisp November air was invigorating as the group set off on a short walk around Matlock. Scenic surroundings always have a way of lifting spirits! With the last autumn leaves clinging to the trees and a hint of winter in the air, it was a gentle reminder that Christmas is just around the corner.

Two CET Walking Club members pause during the Lover’s Walk, framed by the tranquil riverside path and charming buildings in the background.

Exploring Matlock Garden Centre’s Christmas Display

After the walk, we headed to Matlock Garden Centre – a must-visit at this time of year. Their Christmas display was nothing short of magical. From twinkling lights and glittering ornaments to beautifully themed decorations, it was a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own decorations or simply want to soak up the festive atmosphere, this place never disappoints.

A wider view of Jubilee Bridge in Matlock, showcasing the picturesque architecture and a Walking Club member in the distance enjoying the scenery.
A CET Walking Club member standing at the centre of Jubilee Bridge in Matlock, surrounded by scenic winter trees and historic streetlamps, waving joyfully.

Coffee and Cake in the Café

To round off the outing, the group went to the garden centre’s café for a well-deserved coffee and cake. The café was cosy and welcoming, with the hum of happy chatter and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air.

A cheerful CET Walking Club member seated inside the cosy café at Matlock Garden Centre, wearing a warm winter coat and smiling warmly at the camera.

Why You Should Join Us Next Time

Matlock and its surrounding gems have so much to offer, especially during the festive season. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful stroll, a little shopping, or just some quality time over coffee and cake, it’s a wonderful way to spend a day. If you haven’t joined Walking Club, why not make the next trip your first? It’s a great opportunity to connect with others, explore local areas, and enjoy new experiences.

Please call 01623 397750 for more information or speak to your Community Support Worker.

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Cooking Club at The Hub: A Delicious Wednesday

Two members of The Hub Cooking Club preparing ingredients at a table. One is sifting flour into a mixing bowl while the other looks on, both focused on their task. A small vase of sunflowers sits on the table, along with some chopped onions ready for cooking.

Wednesday at The Hub, we had a fantastic cooking session where everyone pitched in to create a classic comfort meal – Bangers and Mash followed by a tray bake berry crumble with custard. The session was led by Cayton and Louise, who made sure everyone got involved, and the results were outstanding! There’s something about cooking together that makes food taste even better, and this week was no exception.

If you’d like to join us, please call 01623 397750 or speak to your Community Support Worker

A member of The Hub Cooking Club preparing a berry crumble. She is holding a mixing bowl filled with crumble topping, sprinkling it over the tray bake. In the background, another member is stirring a pot on a portable stove, with a small vase of sunflowers adding a cheerful touch to the kitchen workspace.
A plate of bangers and mash served with mixed vegetables and rich onion gravy, garnished with freshly chopped chives. The sausages are golden brown, and the mashed potatoes are creamy, making for a classic, comforting meal.
A close-up of a serving of bangers and mash, featuring two sausages topped with rich onion gravy, creamy mashed potatoes, and a garnish of fresh chives. Mixed vegetables are placed alongside, adding a pop of color to this comforting meal.
A member of The Hub Cooking Club sitting at a table, smiling and enjoying a plate of bangers and mash with mixed vegetables. She is holding a fork, ready to dig in. The room has a bright leaf-patterned wallpaper, adding a cheerful backdrop to the scene.
A bowl of warm berry crumble topped with a generous layer of creamy custard. The dessert looks comforting and inviting, perfect for a sweet treat after a hearty meal.