Newbury and Operation Overlord
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RAF Greenham (just south of Newbury) was host to several US fighter and troop-carrier groups during World War 2. It was here that Supreme Allied Commander, General Dwight D. Eisenhower, addressed troops on the evening of 5th June 1944 and at 3.30am the next morning launched Operation Overlord: the D-Day land invasion leading to the liberation of continental Europe from the grip of Nazi Germany. A good history of the base can be found here: https://www.greenhamtower.org.uk/our-heritage.
We will start in the medieval market town of Newbury and walk up onto Greenham Common - nowadays more associated with the Cold War US heavy bomber base. After walking around to see the more usual sights of the common-land (scrub, a few cows, horses, american-style hydrants, fire plane, BB-8 era rebel base, etc...) we'll head to the old control tower for a drinks stop (there's a cafe in support of Greenham Trust) and if it's open go up to get the full panoramic view. We'll return to Newbury along the Kennet and Avon canal.
Is it dog friendly?
Well behaved dogs are welcome but please note and abide by the Countryside Code (https://tinyurl.com/rlqvp3h) and we will be walking through fields containing livestock. Please also remember not everyone loves dogs as much as you do so please be mindful of other members. If you have an questions get in touch by message (I don't always see the comments).
New Members
Please feel free to join this as your first OutdoorLads event. If you have any questions then feel free to message me, or go to the "My First Event" section under "About Us".
Image / photo credits: All leader's own images - with permission for OutdoorLads to use and reuse.
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What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking, trainers are OK if the ground is dry and there’s little chance of rain
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Food & drink
Please bring sufficient food and drink for the walk. We will have regular breaks and a picnic lunch.