Veteran walker joins ARS hike

Yesterday's Short ARS (Audlem Ramblers Society) hike was a five mile circuit around the Wybunbury area. To the delight of all, the group was joined throughout the walk by 91-year old Ernest Knibbs. Two other new walkers were also welcomed to the group.

Ernest is the father of Chris Knibbs, a well-known local walker who, two years ago, completed the formidable Welsh 3000s in aid of Staffordshire Air Ambulance in under twelve hours. His father's presence meant that, for once on a walk, Chris was well under control!

ARS members soon realised that the walking group's participants now covered an amazing age range of over ninety years. Thirty months ago, in March 2008, a young couple were accompanied on an ARS expedition to the Peak District by their 10-month old son Frederick, carried the whole distance on his father's back.

When the party reached Bakewell, the rest of ARS stopped walking and took refreshment. Young Frederick, however, clearly inspired by the day's experience, decided that was the moment to start walking! He took his first independent steps between two chairs and to the amazement of all, made it safely.

ARS are pleased to report that, yesterday, Ernest looked as fit as anyone after the walk.

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