The Newport Muster, a series of organised walks round Cromwell’s ancient garrison town and its spectacular Ouse Valley, is today (August 8) little more than a month away and officials are already making a plea to avoid congestion at the start.

With hundreds of walkers expected on walkday September 10, and all of them having to ‘clock in’ at the start - a small church hall off Newport Pagnell High Street - Muster organisers are urging on-line registration as the best way to avoid queuing.

And they are offering half-price entry fees as an incentive.  “We only make a small charge to cover basic costs and only from adults,” said Walk Chairman Steve Williams, “but we do need all walkers of all ages to have their details registered because we can then record whether or not they complete their chosen course.”

So now, to avoid too many people filling in entry forms on the day and clogging up the hall, the plea has gone out to enter on-line at www.newportmuster.org.uk with a discount offer until August 20.