For Dorset and Solent's autumn gathering in the New Forest, walkers came from far and wide. 28 in total, plus no less than 4 dogs, from the furthest reaches of Hampshire and Dorset and even as far away as Reading.

However, the beautiful colours which should be at their best at this time of year, were somewhat dulled by very gloomy skies. After a lunch stop in the "honeypot" village of Burley we all agreed to return to the start by a short route, thus cutting the walk down to a little over 6 miles.

A small contingent adjourned to Gareth's in Bournemouth for tea, soup and cake. But after a day full of gay chatter (pun intended) and witty repartee, everyone seemed to go home happy.