Marches Group – Long Distance Walkers Association
34th SOUTH SHROPSHIRE CIRCULAR
25 undisclosed miles with some 3500 ft. of “undulations” within 10 hours
th
Saturday February 27 2016
Every year since its inception, the SSC has offered a different route from a different starting
point and has introduced hundreds of walkers and runners to the scenic beauty and challenge of
the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This objective was foremost in the
thinking of its founders, Neil Fullwood and Dave Crawford, Warden of Bridges Youth Hostel.
But inevitably the years take their toll and Neil has now happily passed the organisational baton
into the hands of Jane Webb. As usual, the route for this SSC will remain secret until
Registration when you will be given a clear and accurate Description. This mystery, coupled with
the potential rigours of winter, has made this event a hugely popular classic among upland
challenge walks. Walker or runner, if you’re fit and can navigate, you’ll love the SSC !
Where do we meet and how do we get there?
For the 34th SSC, we pay a first visit to the village hall in Bedstone which is located just north
of the B4367 some 10 miles SW of the A49 at Craven Arms.The grid ref. is SO 368 758
and the Post Code SY7 0BE. Car parking will be at the hall and in a neighbouring field.
The Heart of Wales railway line between Shrewsbury Swansea runs nearby, with stations less
than 2 miles away at Hopton Heath and Bucknell. For overnight accommodation, there are
B & Bs and pubs in Bucknell and Leintwardine but it’s probably best to phone the Tourist
Information Centre in Ludlow on 01584 – 875 – 033.
What is the country like for this year’s SSC?
The hills and valleys around Bedstone are primarily used for stock rearing and are among the
quietest and most attractive in the AONB, with long stretches offering extensive views from
Rights of Way largely unhindered by gates and stiles. Add to this the unusual fact that it’s all
on one OS Explorer map and the country is made for some fine, fast walking or running.
But as always, it should certainly not be underestimated in winter conditions.
What happens once you’re there and out on the route?
The car parks will open from 06.30 and the village hall will welcome you from 06.45 for
Registration, a simple breakfast and issue of the Route Description, which is written for use
with Explorer sheet 201 at 1:25 000. The route will be divided into three or four legs and the
Route Description gives the grid reference of each “self-clip” passage control point and the
serviced checkpoints, plus an accurate, reliable indication of the best line between them.
There will be a briefing at 07.50 and a mass start at 08.00.
A splendid hot meal, endless tea and a fine certificate will greet your return to Bedstone VH.
Entry details
The SSC is open to walkers and runners who will be 18 or over on the 27th February 2016.
Everyone must enter either using SiEntries (https://www.sientries.co.uk/) our preferred option
or complete an official Entry Form and there are no entries on the day.
The Entry Fee which covers a simple breakfast, refreshments, rescue transport, a hot meal at
the FINISH and certificate, is £10.00 for LDWA members and £15.00 for all others.
This is sheep country and we’re sorry but dogs cannot be brought on this event.
Clothing and Equipment
For comfort and safety, you must wear or carry all of the items listed below and you will be
disqualified either before or after the START, if any of them are obviously missing.
 Walking boots or event/fell running shoes with sound well-studded soles.
 Complete body and leg covering (running shorts with tights are OK).
 Wind and waterproof outer protection shell, comprising a jacket and over-trousers.
 Spare inner garment (such as a fleece jacket).
 Hat and gloves
Survival bag
Emergency food and drink.
 Torch Basic First Aid
Compass and whistle.
 OS Explorer sheet no. 201 at 1:25 000 “Knighton & Presteigne”.
 Mug – there will be no cups at check points.