With the forecast showers keeping well away, this 7 mile walk on the banks of the Severn proved to be most pleasant.

Starting from Sharpness where the Gloucester ship canal meets the river Severn, the walk struggled at first along muddy paths and sodden fields. Things got much better rising to the low ridge between the river and the Cotswold escarpement. From here, fine views were had over the Severn towards the Forest of Dean and up river towards Gloucester.

Packed lunches were consumed in the porch of Purton church, before joining the ship canal towpath.

Following the towpath back to Sharpness gave the opportunity to explore the Purton hulks. A vast assortment of derelict vessals rangeing from wooden sailing ships to ferro-cement barges and canal boats. These were deliberately beached alongside the ship canal to protect it from errosion by the Severn. Further on was a chance to view the site of the former railway bridge over the Severn and its swing-bridge over the canal.

End of walk refreshments were had at the Sharpness Dockers club.

Many thanks to those who came along, it was good seeing you all.