MAKE way for the postman!

Volunteers are trimming and tidying one of south Shropshire’s glorious long distance footpaths ahead of celebrations marking the life and work of Simon Evans, Shropshire’s walking postman and author.

Following the success of last year’s commemorative Simon Evans Weekend, when walkers enjoyed the southernmost section of the Simon Evans Way, this year the northern section will be walked.

A distance of some eight miles, the walk takes in many of the picturesque Rea valley farms Evans wrote about in his books and delivered to on his 18-mile walking post round.

Since Evans became a postman after surviving the First World War the walk is entitled ‘In the footsteps of a survivor'. It is one of Shropshire Council’s series of ‘War Walks’ and will be guided by the knowledgeable and experienced Val Simpson.

Walkers should meet at Cleobury Mortimer Golf Club at 10.45am on Sunday, August 7. There will be a bus to Detton (note: NO parking at Detton).

People taking part should bring a packed lunch and wear appropriate footwear – the first section can be very muddy after rain.

The cost is £4 to include printed copy of the route. Bookings in advance from Val Simpson 01299 270655 or cleoburyval@gmail.com

In the evening, walking boots will be jettisoned in favour of dancing shoes.

Following a Postman’s Supper (£8), which will include a pint of locally brewed Hobsons Postman’s Knock, named in honour of Simon Evans, or a soft drink, there will be foot tapping, jigging and general dancing the night away to high energy acoustic folk group WHALEBONE (also £8) at Cleobury Golf Club.

Supper from 6pm and the concert concert at 7.30pm. Tickets in advance from Suzanne Thomas 01584 891130 or suzannetumnus@btinternet.com, or the golf club 01299 271112.