MEET 9.45am for a 10.00am start.

Watermead Country Park runs between the River Soar and the Grand Union Canal, to the north of Leicester. Following the end of sand and gravel extraction in the early 1980s several lakes were created and the whole area was developed into an attractive nature and recreation park.

We will meet at Whiles Lane in Birstall village where there is ample street parking. There is a mini traffic island in the centre of Birstall and from there turn right at the Earl of Stamford pub. This is Front Street which leads into Whiles Lane. Go round a left hand bend and park further down adjacent to the river. Grid Ref. SK598093. Postcode LE4 4EE.

The walk will start at 10.00am. Please bring a packed lunch so we can be flexible. John Spiers will lead a walk around the south and north ends of the park. It will be about 5 miles long, all flat and no stiles. After the walk we will be able to have a drink in the White Horse pub which is very close by.