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.