Ever since that initial lockdown, where the only ways we were allowed to leave our homes were to go to the shops and wrestle with people over the last of the loo rolls or, far more pleasantly, leave for our daily exercise.
For a lot of CommunityAd’s cherished readership that daily exercise of choice was a walk, though Paul Dawkins’ love of trekking around Deal well predates the pandemic.
CommunityAd had the pleasure of a chat with the man behind the walking group Deal Coast & Country Walkers. A Facebook group that now boasts over 600 members.
The group has been very well received by the local community, hasn’t it, Paul?
Yes, the idea is a self-managed walking group, where members plan and book walks and invite members along to join them. Other groups are managed by walk leaders, where our group is different as members can design walks to their own fitness levels.
As well as the physical benefits members get from the walks there is obviously a social benefit to them as well, isn’t there?
Yes, the social aspect of the group is pivotal, especially when the pandemic came along, and when permitted walks could be arranged with plenty of social distancing in the fresh air where the risk was less than indoor settings.
What makes Deal such a fine location for walkers?
Deal has plenty of countryside and of course our beautiful coast so walks can be aimed to take in both aspects of the area.
Why should readers consider joining the group and indeed joining you on a stroll?
New members are always welcome, to get recommended levels of exercise and fresh air and to meet and make new friends.
How long have you lived here in delightful Deal, Paul? What makes it such a fine community to be a part of?
I have lived in Deal most of my life but I am well-travelled, and have to say Deal is the best place to live if you enjoy the natural environment of countryside and coast and a welcoming community.