"A three mile walk to see the rare "Lady" and "Monkey" wild Orchids at HARTSLOCK WOOD Nature Reserve, have a picnic looking down on the the River Thames and Goring Gap" as offered by our own Naturalist Dave K and Alan.

So eleven of our regular friends, along with one new member (courtesy of our David W at Sonning) set out on a bright but cool morning.

I caused a diversion to Tesco, as I hadn't remembered we were having a picnic. In some ways it worked better as the return route brought us up the Thames Tow Path.

After level ground we climbed to the SSSI site. Dave was true to his word. The pictures don't do the orchids credit, as we were unable to go near. A carpet of rare orchids, each 10 inches high.

We then sat in the increasing sunshine getting steadily warmer, and wishing we had trusted the weather forecast - and shorts. After our picnic, some fell asleep, others chatted watching the river craft below. Looking for more plants we reluctantly descended down to the river side and made our way back stopping for the "tourist picture" outside George Michaels former home.

The teashop was waiting, with the big table ready to accommodate us.

Again thanks to both Alan and Dave for putting time in pre-visiting and watering the orchids so they could be perfect.

Simon and Vas left us from the cafe to catch a flight to Romania, we wish them well.

We have so many knowledgeable members, all contributing to yet another successful event.

Thanks, Bill