No fireworks, just a peaceful walk in one of the remotest parts of the New Forest on one of very few fine days in the middle of a very wet spell of weather.

Fears of footpaths turning into footbaths proved unfounded as ten walkers, suitably booted, set off from the High Corner Inn on a bright sunny morning. Many photo stops were in order, as this is the time of year when the forest turns into a golden wonderland. Who needs New Hampshire in the Fall? Old Hampshire in the autumn can be just as colourful, if a little soggy under foot.

A midday picnic at a Second World War observation post on the open plateau, then a couple of drinks back at the Inn, ever popular in spite of it being a long way off-road. Then it was time to head back to the leader's home in Bournemouth for tea. Home made soups and flapjacks were on offer, among other goodies, to round off a pleasant Sunday.