Eighteen hardy GOC members new and old (plus one dog) decided to ignore the poor weather forecast and meet for an early autumn walk in the north oxfordshire village of Cropredy,  that is famous for its Civil war battle and annual music festival.  Heading off from the carpark we crossed the site of said festival, stopping to admire the Jonah tree.  An oak surrounded by memorials to late members of the band Fairport Convention and people connected to the festival.

From the festival field we connected with the Canal where a pretty walk along the towpath took us past many colourful boats and through much greenery.  Off the canal we arrived at Prescott manor for a much needed coffee break.

Onward we moved through the small hamlet of Willamscot and a lunch stop with fine views of the countryside.  As the predicted rain started to fall we all wondered if we would get caught in a downpour but mercifully it held off as we journeyed through the pretty village of Great Bourton.  Arrriving back in Cropredy we stopped by the mysterious cup and saucer to wonder the purpose of this strange carving.  Finishing at the pub for a well deserved drink the heavens opened and we were all thankful for our good fortune at returning just in the nick of time.