Hi Gang,

Well what a memorable set of circumstances. To start with our leader David went down with vertigo, so Paul and myself covered. I suggested we follow the Roman Rd north, meet the villages and circle back round. Paul thought it to far, so we set out to explore the hides on the RSPB area.

Ironically we had the most - 4 - new members almost out number our regulars.  It didn't take long for even the quiet members chattering away to our new found friends.

We reached a point that those who may well have expected a faster walk, set off up the escarpment to the pub. For the rest we attempted to go east, got lost, but found the path going south. In desperation we found a gate well marked with a "private" sign. The map showed that was the direction. Having discussed what we should say and do if we met the owner. As expected met him walking the dog. He was reassuring and said most walkers got lost and strayed into his property. So off we went east only to meet another expensive vehicle. Same story to him "No I'm not the owner, you met him with the dogs". So off out and back to the vehicles only to reach the pub as our "fast walkers" approached down the hill.

Running early we settled down in the garden of "The Abingdon Arms" BECKLEY, with stunning views over where we had just walked. David and his mate turned up as we all had delightful hand made pitza's.

Hopefully we shall see more of our "New Members"

Thanks to David and Paul for organising.

Bill