Faced with near-apocalyptic weather warnings, six brave (or foolhardy) Dorset members, and one dog, set out for a midweek five and a half mile stroll across Upton Heath and Country Park.

Even the leader, Gareth, had doubts about going ahead with this rescheduled walk. But instead of the expected thunder, lightning and biblical floods, we were rewarded with sweeping sunny views over Poole Harbour and lunch in the still-colourful walled garden at Upton House.

Returning to our starting point, miraculously with barely a drop of rain on us, we had nothing to contend with except a few damp soles and four very muddy paws. Well done, Stellar the Cavapoo. And sucks to the weather forecasters!