Mileaters Coasting it.... 
An early start was the order of the day for 12 doughty walkers & 2 canine friends, as we set off on the next section of the Dorset Coast Path from Chickerell to The Kings Statue on Weymouth sea front.
What looks on paper to be a gentle stroll is in fact a lot further than first thought, as the Path follows every inlet along The Fleet. At one such inlet, a stop for refreshments was called and Malcolm produced his "Snack" - the biggest pasty you ever did see. Fortunately there was no red flag flying at the Tidmoor Rifle Range so we risked the Coastal route and after 5 1/2 miles reached the "delights" of Ferrybridge. A slight breeze off the water did little to alleviate the heat but the shade of the gardens at Sandsfoot Castle provided a cooling spot for lunch, ice creams or cold drinks, and in some cases all three.
Moving on, we passed a number of OTT piles on what was now a fully urban section, before reaching The Nothe. Some were tempted to take the rowboat ferry across Weymouth Harbour but the alternative attraction of fish & chips, or a beer (or both) won out. All too soon our leader, hard taskmaster that he was, tapped his watch and we were off to meet the bus back to our starting point, some 8 3/4 miles under our belts.
A flattish walk but quite a challenging one on such a hot day. Well done all.
Nick Priddle
