Mileaters - A disCERNEing walk.

The clock on the Village Church struck 9.30 but where was the missing walker, a former member of the Military?  Late on Parade ! Anyone need any potatoes peeled ? 

In the end the whole group of 17 assembled in Cerne Abbas and we set off on a very hot day to enjoy a walk in the  fine countryside  around Cerne. During  the first part of the walk there was not a lot of shade or breeze and we  made more than the usual number of stops for water top-ups, during one of which we disturbed a family of  pheasants – about 15 or so young birds.  Approximately half way around we made a steep ascent through Up Cerne Wood. 

This took about 10 – 15 minutes , but most of us were pretty hot and bothered having completed the climb. We took  a very welcome recovery break. Having made it to the top of the ridge we continued our journey and encountered a  wonderful, cooling breeze. The route afforded some great vistas and we eventually found ourselves making good progress with most of the ascent behind us.

Turning for home we enjoyed a delightful descent with terrific views  down the Cerne Valley. We covered nearly 6 miles and were pleased to get to The Giant Inn to enjoy some well earned refreshment and rehydration!

Andy Davies.