History & culture came alive in Herefordshire's Bromyard Downs last Sunday. Twelve members began their romp by exploring sightings Welsh Hills, a Victorian racecourse, prior to entering the National Trust's Warren Wood.

Here post-walk research by Jonathan from Warwickshire explained the weird totems staring up at us in a secluded corner. They were mannikin pet memorials adjoining a ruined Shepherds hut – the actual sheep came miles later. We heard of secret WW2 underground bunkers, staffed for a thankfully unnecessary resistance movement and fuelled by large jars of Rum. Whilst this latter feature tempted some of us for an early drink, we instead opted for an unstaffed horticultural farmyard `produce pod`. Here Damson Vinegar was purchased (other products available) and plant species evaluated by our expert gardening members

Suitably stocked up, a coffee break and the Estate Church's gorgeous 1890`s tiled reredos Church was soon on offer. Now came Brockhampton National Trust parkland, where a former owner fought at England's bloodiest battle, up North at Towton, in 1471. More ups and downs led to another of those beautifully temperamental antique field gates Latch buttons were pressed to no avail, eventually the entire contraption was lifted several inches and yes! - here were the sheep and here was the leader's warnings to take care where you walked.

Lunch was taken round the ornamental Lawn Pool, stocked with bullrushes with a bench for the weary amongst us

Our final ascent, without discernable footpath but with views of the 19th Cent Manor followed. After discussions with the National Trust, we hot footed on our return journey, using shaded tree cover as a disguise. Here we again found the topograph but where was sugar loaf mountain? Most of us settled for the Queens Head in Bromyard High Street.

Many thanks to back marker Martin who `led from behind`and to Chris , Western Mids coordinator who shared the fun