8 people and 2 dogs convened at Druridge Bay country park for a coastal walk to Amble and back.

The tide was out so we walked out on the beach. Some sea mist helped keep the heat of the sun at bay.

Somewhere on the beach a dog lead was lost.

Arriving at Amble we wound our way through the crowded Sunday market (where a replacement lead was purchased), past the marina and onto the Braid where we sat on the grass to eat lunch looking over the boats. Unpacking bags to find lunch, the lost dog lead was found.

The mist had lifted and with temperatures rising a stop at Spurelli’s for ice-cream was needed before the return walk (sea buckthorn flavour is recommended). We made our way around the harbour, avoiding the market, and up onto the dunes. It was a hot, dusty return walk and, unusually for this part of the world, barely a breeze to cool us down. Several stops for hot dogs needing water were needed as we made our way past the nature reserve (created where there was once an open cast coal mine) and back to the country park.

8 hot people and two dogs took the chance for rest and refreshment at the café before the drive home.

Everyone was glad to have ventured so far north of the North East group's usual habitat. There was talk of a weekend next year to allow those from further afield to experience this fabulous area. Watch this space….