Interview: Ann Gammack on 'Women Afoot'

We find out more about a Tayside and Fife walking group's lockdown project that's raising funds for our Wild Ways Path Appeal

'Women Afoot - Stories of Outdoor Exploration and Coping with Lockdown' is a recent publication from the Tayberries - a Nordic Walking group in Tayside and Fife. With profits from the book being donated to our Wild Ways Path Appeal, we were keen to find out more about their lockdown project. Ann Gammack, from the book's editorial team, told us more.

"When the Covid-19 lockdown prevented the Tayberries from walking together, we were inspired by a member of the group, Vivian, to contribute to Women Afoot. The result was a collection of first-person reflections, stories and photographs, which celebrate the joys and benefits of walking and outdoor exploration.

"The book includes descriptions of our favourite local walks, of adventures further afield and other outdoor activities including cycling and dry stone walling. It also includes reflections on the restrictions of these activities during the Covid-19 crisis, how the group has adapted with regular on-line meetings and descriptions of other activities which have been taken up.

"As the book reached the printing stage we agreed that any profits from sales would benefit a health, outdoor or environmental organisation. To date this has included the John Muir Trust's Wild Ways Path Appeal and Maggie’s Centres."

Paper copies of Women Afoot are available by visiting the Bookhouse in Broughty Ferry or can be ordered by emailing womenafoot@gmail.com for £10 each + £2 postage - with all profits going to charity. An electronic version is also available.

Below are a few quotes from readers:

• This collection of stories should appeal to anyone who loves walking, travelling or being outdoors. It’s an absolute joy to read. - Heather
• I have just finished reading 'Women Afoot' and to say I have enjoyed it thoroughly is an understatement. It is beautifully written and is an invitation to people of all ages to discover not only Tayside and beyond, but also the health benefits of walking together or alone. - Norma
• What a great lockdown project! I am sure the process of writing ‘Women Afoot’ was valuable in itself. I really enjoyed reading the stories and I am sure many others will too. - Huw

If you are a member of a group interested in protecting wild places, or if you'd like to find out more about ways to support us, visit our fundraising pages.