Caroline and Phil have been members of Swansea Council’s Countryside Access Team for 21 years and 16 years respectively. Between us we have over 50 years experience of working within the sector.
Caroline first came to Swansea from Somerset to study in the late 1990s, discovered Rights of Way work after graduating, and never left. The county’s wild common lands captured me straight away, and Cefn Bryn remains a firm favourite.
Phil is Swansea born and bred. Although he headed off to Lampeter University, the pull of home proved irresistible and he soon returned. Since then, he’s developed a real passion for the quieter corners of northern Swansea – bringing long-forgotten paths back to life, some unused for over 30 years. He’s also been heavily involved in improving the stunning stretch of coast between Caswell and Mumbles – arguably one of the best parts of the Gower Coast Path, and certainly Phil’s favourite.
The pair’s day-to-day work is all about keeping Swansea’s footpaths and bridleways open, accessible and enjoyable for everyone and their Gower Walking Festival Parkmill & Ilston walk on Wednesday 9th September is about sharing some of that work with you.
They chose this walk because it tells a story. Along the route, you’ll see paths that they have restored, bridges they’ve built and areas that they’ve worked on with brilliant volunteers from Swansea Ramblers. The team’s monthly work parties with the Ramblers are easily the highlight of their working month- full of laughter, teamwork and the satisfaction of seeing real results on the ground.
So, as you join them on their walk, they will point out the changes, share a few stories, and hopefully give you a new appreciation for the paths beneath your feet.