New year always brings hopes and resolutions, both more important than ever this year.

Like people of goodwill everywhere, members of Mendip Ramblers hope for a better year in 2021 for the whole world.

In our small corner of the world we know that we have been quite fortunate. In the midst of difficult times, the chance to go walking is a treat.

Like everyone else we have had our freedom curtailed but have been able to enjoy some group walks, inevitably rather restricted. We hope that 2021 will bring easy walking for all - that's easy walks and easy access to walks.

But there is more to local Ramblers groups than meets the eye! Ramblers nationally have been busy even in this difficult year reclaiming lost footpaths, and Mendip Ramblers have played their part.

More than 49,000 lost paths have been found, 9,000 of them in the South West. These are paths in the countryside, in villages and towns which are walked but don't appear on the map - if they're not registered by 2026 they will be lost!

Some individual members have been walking and checking in their local area. Other Mendip Ramblers have been out, when permitted, to repair and renew the gates, stiles, bridges and finger posts so that walking is easier for all who use those paths. These Working Party volunteers deserve credit!

So, what about the resolutions? Since holidays abroad remain difficult maybe we should all resolve to explore our own backyards.

Mendip Ramblers were chiefly responsible for creating a linear route that encircles the Mendips. This is the Mendip Ring, 117 miles long, in nine stages, that follows the Mendip boundary.

Two local people are planning to complete this route at Easter, raising money for charity. Perhaps this will encourage others to explore the wonderful variety of the Mendip area, from the Somerset Levels to the high points around Burrington Combe.

It is possible, of course, to walk anywhere. Many new walkers have found lovely routes on their doorsteps, maybe a resolution could be to go a little further afield and join in group walks.

There's always someone at hand to help. And what about the usual new year resolution to be more active? Some walking could be the right choice!

By Elaine Dadley for Mendip Ramblers