After Coffee, 24 trekkers trying to sit on one small bench, we reached the first wooded area, coming across a carpet of Bluebells (English), Wood Anenomes and Stitch Wort (thanks Ann). A fallen tree had some walkers considering a limbo competition but too many bad knees and sore backs soon brought in a reality check. The highlight for the quiet bods at the front was the look of disbelief on a small stags face as two dozen humans ventured onto his turf. After giving us his best Paddington hard stare he went about his business ever so slightly annoyed.

The second wooded area held even more treasures with purple Orchids and wild garlic, just ready to burst forth, plus an unidentified bird’s egg. (Song Thrush, according to Google images)

The last 400yds, across the Manor House grounds, contained 6 stiles which tried legs found just a little bit of an effort. Ancient earthworks, in the very last field bordered by Devil’s Brook, were overlooked as the Oak Pub and lunch was just the other side of the fence.

By Martin Usherwood