I first heard about Blaze Trails from a local mums group when my daughter was just three months old. We hadn't joined many groups yet, but Blaze seemed perfect. So on a rainy November day, I packed up the car and headed into Dartmoor, only a 20 minute drive. It was the first time my daughter didn't cry in the car - a very memorable moment for us!

The walk was in an area I knew well from walking my dogs so I felt confident that the walk was achievable. Meeting other parents was great, sharing experiences and getting some exercise on the moors. Even though the weather wasn't great, we had the right gear, so it was fine! Anything is possible!

After enjoying a few more walks at country parks and in Dartmoor, the volunteer walk organiser mentioned that anyone could become an organiser. I reached out and chatted with the regional volunteering manager, completed the online training in March 2023, and I've loved being a walk organiser for Blaze ever since. I think I've organized around 25 walks or more now. Our group has grown, merged into a Devon-wide group, and seen new organisers come and go with changes in life.

I love showing everyone new places to explore, building connections, and socialising, both for myself and my toddler. I've made wonderful friendships with other parents from the walks, and I know others have too. This all wouldn't have happened without Blaze Trails.

I've even got grant funding in 2024 and 2025 from my local town council to help spread the word with marketing materials. A big thanks to Kingsteignton Town Council for supporting local clubs and organisations through their annual Grant Scheme. Now with leaflets and business cards that we can put up in community spaces we can help spread the word about the Blaze Trails Devon group. The more who come, the better!

Come join one of the walks in Devon! Whether you're visiting on holiday or just want to check it out, you'd feel very welcome.

Hope to see you there!

Hanna