• Leaders should be aware that they need to have ideas of how to shorten the trip and escape routes from higher ground if the weather turns. They should either know the route well or preferably recce it shortly before the walk to ensure that there are no unexpected hazards.
• It is recommended that at least one member of the group has a mobile phone with a charged battery pack.
• Winter walks should be planned to be completed by 3:30. i.e. 6 hours from 9.30. With the usual walking speed of these groups (including stops) that equates to a maximum of about 12km.
• Ensure that bothy bag (and emergency beacon for B walks) will be available on the day - either pick it up or ask someone who is walking to bring it.

DURING THE WALK

• Be aware of state of walkers, e.g. someone lagging behind and that you have everybody.
• Don’t get too far ahead of the party and stop when necessary to keep the group together.
• Stop frequently (to admire the view), particularly on steep uphill and downhill sections.
• Communicate with group re timing of stops, route etc
• Be prepared to amend the route if weather changes.

GUIDANCE FOR LEADERS - ADMINISTRATIVE

• Take phone calls from potential walkers and arrange transport - usually walkers arrange amongst themselves cars from Windermere and cars from Ambleside. Deadline 7 pm. Confirm meeting place with drivers if any doubts.
• If the weather looks doubtful, consult with coordinators and / or experienced walkers.
• Cancellations are either done via Beacon by one of the coordinators or when members ring in.
• Inform members of any amendments when they ring in.
• If possible at the end of the walk, or on the return journey, locate a tea room for after-walk refreshments. Check closing times. If nothing suitable, a pub can be used.

FURTHER NOTES ON LEADING

• Collect the Bothy Bag + Beacon from previous leader if you haven't already got it.
• Start when all present. If at 09.30 some are missing decide amongst the group what to do if they cannot be contacted.
• Give a short briefing with plan for day and any potential issues. Have a map available.
• At the briefing advise more precise timings/venues for the stops, which may be dependent on facilities available, terrain & weather conditions on the day.
• Add any ‘Educational’ pieces of info on the route.
• ‘Banana Break’: usually 10:45 - 11:00; approx 10 mins with 2 min warning to set-off.
• Lunch Break: usually 12:30 - 1:00; approx 20 mins with 5 min warning to set-off.
• (For B walkers) Afternoon Break: usually 3 pm; approx 10 mins with 2 min warning to set-off. Usually only on longer summer walks where walk will go beyond 4:00 or on hot days.
• Arrange to pass the bothy bag to next leader.