I have spent the summer working on a genome campus with no free time for my regular walks, but now I really must get into shape for my weekend away with the Cambridge Rambling Club next month to the South Downs. I expect the undulating landscape there to be much more challenging than the usual flat Fenland landscape where I live, and I hope to manage a long weekly walk before we leave.

Today I made a start by joining another walking group which I belong to, the Newmarket branch of the Ramblers Association, as I wanted to explore the pretty village of Hadstock where we met up. I was pleased to see a few familiar faces, and, as usual, there were some surprises during the day.

Firstly I was amazed to learn that our sprightly leader, Jim, is 85-years-old, and, as you can see in the picture, a beaming picture of health at the end of our walk, about 7 1/2 miles and shorter than my usual 10-14 mile treks. He told how me he had started walking 25 years ago on doctor’s advice after having two heart by-passes, and must have walked hundreds, if not thousands of miles, since. I have met a few other octogenarians with my walking groups and their energy never fails to impress me. Jim had no limp and his joints seemed well oiled; he could easily put a man half his age to shame with his fast walking pace.

Secondly, I stumbled across a lane with my maiden name which is quite unusual, Moules. I couldn’t resist taking a photo of Moules Lane in Hadstock to share with my family, and I am really intrigued to learn why it was named this.

Thirdly, I explored Hadstock’s Church afterwards and stumbled across a tombstone with a metal maze stuck to it as the deceased was a lover of mazes and designed it himself for his tombstone; that must be truly unique!

I promise you, a walk with the ramblers is always fun and leaves you fitter in mind and body. Go on, give it a go, and don’t leave it until your doctor tells you that you need to do it for health reasons, you can start enjoying it now.