A TRAIN journey to walk in the wild and wonderful Welsh Marches is a delightful way for town and city dwellers to explore the countryside and 'Rail Rambles' is the way to go.

As the name suggests, Rail Rambles are for people who enjoy organised walks from railway stations on the lines running through the borderland; Ludlow -- Gateway to the Marches -- Church Stretton, and from Craven Arms on the Heart of Wales line, writes Jen Green.

Launched in 1975 by Lancastrian Alan Howard, then chairman of the Ramblers' Association, this popular pursuit, set up in partnership with British Rail took keen walkers living in towns and cities in the North West across country by rail; opening up opportunities for them to explore historic villages, towns, wildlife and the countryside.

In 1991, these popular excursions had to be curtailed when British Rail was no longer prepared to make the rolling stock available.

It was also the year Alan Howard moved to Shrewsbury, and by then Rail Rambles had become a way of life. He persuaded BR to expand the scheme, and set up something similar from Shrewsbury, using trains connecting with the Cambrian, Heart of Wales and Marches lines to open up new territories to northern hikers.

Still going strong, ramblers in south Shropshire and north Herefordshire play host and arrange conducted walks around places of architectural and historic interest, and the countryside.

Guided walks with experienced leaders are planned by local co-ordinators and Wales and Border Trains throughout the year. They generally take place on Saturdays, usually with a choice of two walks within distances from six to 15 miles. A feature of this year's programme is a series of regular trips to Ludlow, Church Stretton, Knighton and Buckell, plus a new Leominster circular, all timed to meet the departing train home.

Experienced walk leaders carry out dummy runs, check out the routes and swot up on areas of interest on the route they cover.

Since 1999 Leominster-based Richard and Barbara Addyman have played a prominent role in the organisation of Rail Ramblers. Walkers for many years, they are often on hand "just in case keen newcomers try to take on walk leaders, or people drop behind the back marker."

Barbara said: "But it's all good-humoured and the groups keep to the routes and rights of way. We have never had a more serious accident than a broken ankle. It's all very social for hikers who don't want to use a car to get to a walk. It's a wonderful way to see the countryside and you can often spot the route from the train.

"Wales and Border trains play their part, too. They help us out with tickets to 'recky' and try out new walks, and pay for the detailed programme, which can be picked up at most railway stations in the area.

"They really can't do enough for us," she added.

Strong boots or walking shoes are advisable for all the walks, plus waterproof clothing, food and drinks. The normal range of Day Return, Saver and Supersaver tickets can be used to travel to starting points, children's rates and discounted fares for railcard holders also apply.

All you need to walk in the beautiful Marches is a 'ticket to ride' a Wales & Border train and enjoy the company of like minded people on the ramble.

Contact 01568 612571 for the January/May 2003 programme and any other information on Railway Ramblers.