We had eleven walkers today and we all enjoyed the sunshine. Our walk took us along the ridge towards the Iron Age camp at Rainsborough. The views across the valley were spectacular in the sunshine. Those at the front of the group saw two deer speed off down the hill and out of sight. We passed through Camp Farm and noted the new deep drainage ditch created alongside the bridleway. The track was very soft and wet underfoot.walking up into Croughton. We passed through the village and crossed into the lane opposite the school and from there into the churchyard, rich in snowdrops. We checked that the old television set dumped in the hollow trunk of the ancient yew was still there and joked with some nearby workmen. We walked between some very interested horses through to Mill Lane and across the fast flowing ford and continued through to Upper Aynho Grounds. No deer here today just rabbits. Over the B4100 and across to the Souldern to Aynho path was reasonably free of mud but the final stretch up the field to the Portway path and the tunnel was very wet indeed. In fact it was a flood with water still coursing down the field to feed it. Back at the Pavilion Sue served coffee and we all enjoyed the cakes from Hazel, Lis and Carol. Claire has backed out of running the cafe so our hopes rest on Kay from Nibbles in Brackley. Let us hope she can manage to organise things to enable her to look after us. Meanwhile huge thanks to Sue who has put so much work into keeping things going
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| Through the Woods |