Ringwood & Fordingbridge Footpath Society
This volunteer-led group plays a key role in maintaining and promoting the local Rights of Way. Members contribute to the upkeep of the Avon Valley Path, a 34-mile route stretching from Salisbury to Christchurch, with the society handling 21 miles from Hatchet Green to Bisterne.
Their efforts stem from collaborations with landowners, parish councils and Hampshire County Council to connect existing paths into a cohesive trail. Over the years, the society has built a reputation for practical involvement in path creation and preservation, ensuring these routes remain accessible for everyday use.
At the heart of the society’s work lies a commitment to guided walks. They organise two or three each week throughout the year, open to anyone interested in exploring the area on foot. These outings vary in length and terrain, often highlighting natural features like riversides, commons and woodlands.
Guests can join up to three walks without charge to get a feel for the group before deciding on membership. Beyond the guided sessions, the society provides self-guided options through their website, complete with route descriptions and maps for independent adventurers.
Path maintenance forms another core activity. Volunteers form work parties in partnership with local authorities to clear overgrown sections, cut back vegetation and tackle special projects, such as bridge repairs along the Avon Valley Path. They conduct systematic surveys of the Rights of Way across the parishes on a rolling annual basis, inspecting for obstructions, damaged signposts or missing waymarks.
Any issues spotted get reported promptly to Hampshire County Council, helping to keep the network in good order. This hands-on approach extends to engaging with developers’ plans, advocating for improvements and addressing access problems through discussions with councils and landowners.
Membership brings several perks for those keen to get more involved. After the trial walks, individuals can apply via the society’s website. Members receive the quarterly online magazine Waymark, which covers topics like walk reports, path updates and local history.
They also gain access to the full walks programme, email alerts for urgent news and a range of social gatherings. These include monthly evening meetings at Greyfriars in Ringwood during the cooler months, along with seasonal events such as a Christmas party, a mid-summer picnic and an annual backpack gathering at the adopted trig point on Ibsley Common.
The society fosters a sense of community among its participants, blending physical activity with social interaction. Walks often serve as opportunities to share knowledge about the area’s flora, fauna and heritage, from ancient woodlands to industrial remnants. Their Facebook page acts as a hub for daily updates, photo sharing and discussions, keeping everyone connected between outings.
For those looking to report path problems or learn more, the website offers straightforward guidance on how to flag issues, alongside sections on walks, events and contacts. A phone line provides additional support for enquiries. Through these channels, the society continues to encourage broader use of the footpaths, supporting both routine strolls and longer explorations in the Avon Valley.