"Right from the start everyone was friendly and welcoming"

Soon after moving to Crieff 2 years ago I saw Richmond Community weekly health walks advertised and thought I’d go along to improve my fitness after a very recent knee replacement and also, perhaps the main reason, to make contact with people of a similar age.

Living on my own and in a new area, I knew it was important to join local groups even though I found the idea quite daunting. Walking into the room where everyone gathers before the walks and seeing so many new faces and everyone chatting together, I nearly turned for home again.

I’m so pleased I didn’t because that was the start of feeling at home in Crieff. Right from the start everyone was friendly and welcoming and at the tea and chat after the walks I got to know people better. I can’t praise the Leaders too highly because they make sure it’s an inclusive environment.

Now once a month with Health Walks on Tour, we’re taken by bus to walk in lovely places maybe an hour away and have refreshments before the journey home. Those trips are very much appreciated by everyone. In the past year or so a fortnightly Friendship Group has started. Sometimes there’s a speaker and if not then it’s a games morning, always competitive, good fun and well organised. Lots of chat over tea and biscuits here too.

So I have to thank all involved with the Richmond Community activities for introducing me to a whole new group of people who have helped me to feel at home here.