We took a few minutes to remember Brian Croft, the original walk leader for Aynho, and explain next weeks arrangements to fit with his funeral service. Thirteen of us then set off in the lovely sunshine so rare of late. We had welcomed Virginia as a new walker with our group and two trainee leaders shadowed their leader before leading a walk in the future. We walked down Station Road and Millers Lane before following the wall through to Souldern. There were still plenty of puddles about and plenty of mud, but the sunshine kept us cheerful. There were daffodils and blossom along the way as we headed up towards Nancy Bowles Wood. The Alpacas looked to be enjoying the sunshine and their step-mum no longer wore her coat. Suddenly two muntjac broke into the path, pinged through the fence, and raced across the ploughed field to the protection of the woods. We took the road down to Souldern and were really struck by the beauty of the flowers and tree blossom in the sunshine. The village pond by Church Lane was a part of this impressive village view. Once back crossing the fields it was mud and water again until we were back at the pavilion for refreshments.
