We are very sorry to announce that our long-standing Chairman, Ian Ritchie, has decided to stand down with effect from our next AGM, after 15 years in that post.

Ian came aboard at a time when the Association was struggling to counter the increasing and devastating impact on The Ridgeway of abuse by the off-roaders, resulting in many stretches of the Trail becoming a sea of mud impassable by walkers or any other users. He very ably led our eventually successful campaign to counter this and achieve legislative protection for The Ridgeway and other green lanes. He has also taken charge of our more recent project to establish The Great Stones Way.

With the Association now contemplating a new role in support of a new public/private partnership for The Ridgeway, Ian feels that it is the right time to hand over to a new Chairman.

The Trustees are now seeking candidates for the Chairmanship to take over from Spring, 2015. Nominations are warmly invited and should be addressed to the Secretary, Jeff Goddard, at [email protected], or by post to him at 6 Darell Road, Caversham, Reading, RG4 7AY.