Ali Melabie
At our Committee meeting on 16 September, Ali Melabie announced she was going to step down as Secretary as from the AGM on 24 October. She had announced this a year ago as well. This is an opportune time (long overdue by years) to ask her a little about herself, so we compiled some questions and here are her answers:
When and Why did you join Ramblers (Nationally)?
I already enjoyed walking and went out with a friend and her dog when I moved to Berkshire in 1993, then began going on holidays with 'Ramblers Worldwide' so joining a local walking group was the logical next step (in 2004).
When, why and how did you start being involved locally?
If I hadn't met some Mid Berks members on a Loddon valley walk who told me about a vacancy on the forthcoming trip to the Isle of Wight I might have stayed with Loddon valley group! There was something that just clicked for me with Mid Berks so I stayed. Some of the longer walkers then are now our 'strollers' so they were my role models.
You have been MBRA/our Secretary for how long?
Since I retired so 8 years. It was one of my 'activities' to fill my retirement amongst many others.
What is your favourite country walk in this area and why?
I love the valleys from Hambleden up to Frieth, Skirmett, Fingest, Turville. I've never led a walk there because it is a favourite of many so I can just enjoy being led by others.
What is your favourite town walk in this area and why?
I enjoy walking about in London as there are so many different and interesting places, architecture, history, sights and sounds.
Apart from rucksack and waterproofs, what would you not do a country walk without?
I don't always take waterproofs as I like to check the weather forecast but an umbrella is always useful, either for the rain or too much sun !! A map, water of course and a camera, or now a smart phone and some money for a cup of tea (and cake) often found in the summer months at a church.
Does a piece of music or a song come to you when walking in the country? What is it?
Nothing comes to mind. I like the sounds of the countryside and sometimes find that there is too much 'noise' in a large group so am happy with smaller numbers.
Where is your favourite walking holiday?
I loved the Austrian lower hills/ mountains with views of lakes, snow, sky, the Italian lakes, but anywhere where there is water.
Do you have a favourite smell? If so, what is it?
Flowers – any!
What is your favourite music or artist or composer or Group? If that is too difficult give two!
It's too difficult even with two. I have an eclectic taste, pop, classical, jazz, folk. One of my favourite 'songs' is the aria from Samson and Delilah as it is sung with such emotion and I found it when quite young on a chipped '78 record belonging to my parents. Music depends so much on mood so I like many genres.
Your favourite hobby?
Patchwork - I love choosing fabric, making up a design and then sewing it all together, mostly now to give away.