The weather forecast obviously deterred all but the hardiest of walkers this week as only three strong willed ladies joined me on an enjoyable if rather wet morning’s walk. We set off down the Portway path and continued towards Souldern before branching off to the left up to the B4100. We crossed the road with care and continued up the drive to Upper Aynho Grounds where we diverted from the public footpath to take the drive down to the lakes. I had previously got permission for this thanks to Richard and Jerry Stephenson. On the way down we passed a field of Red Poll cattle with a number of truly endearing calves. A Swan had nested on the island again this year and once more the bridge by the pagoda was shut off to protect the nest. We stopped to take photos and this alerted the cob who swam round to make sure we did not get too close. Richard stopped off on his rounds to chat to us and told us that of last year’s five cygnets only one survived. He also explained about the improvements to drainage and the dredging of the next lake. As we continued in to the Warren Farm woods it became clear that the new drainage system was very effective in dealing with the section of the path that had always been marshy. We walked on passing through Croughton churchyards and crossing the main road through the village. it was now raining more heavily but crossing to camp farm the wind was behind us so it was not too unpleasant walking. We passed through the camp, walked along the ridge and out through Green Lane arriving at the pavilion just after 12.15. Total distance 6.8 miles. The rain was now really heavy so we were glad of Kay’s hot drinks and delicious cakes.
