A big surprise today when predicted bad weather turned to sunshine!

So, very pleasant for our 13 walkers over 8 miles of the beautiful rolling hills of Dorset countryside, heading north west from the new development of Charminster Farm near Dorchester, taking the high ground of Charminster Down in the Cerne Valley. Turning west on Stratton Down, we eventually reached Jackmans Cross, a great stone cross and bench on the edge of a coniferous plantation, affording splendid views to the west. Once the site of an ancient cross, now replaced by a new one to celebrate the new Millennium, it's name comes from legend that a Mr Jackman was hanged here in the 18th century for stealing sheep!

After a short break here, we headed south, down into the River Frome valley, joining the Old Roman Road to the charming village of Stratton, to enjoy our picnic on the green next to the Saxon Arms and the church of St Mary the Virgin. Once refreshed we headed to the other end of the village, passing under 2 bridges, one for the Weymouth to Cardiff railway line, and the other, the very busy Dorchester to Yeovil road, then passing Stratton Dairy, we headed north again to high ground and Cherry Close Coppice, and once again onto Charminster Down eventually leading us back into Charminster Farm. On return and completing our walk, Tony, a friend of our leader today, entertained everyone to a very nice tea at his house nearby, and also to view an exhibition of his paintings which will shortly be open to the public. A fitting end to a very nice and sunny day out!