We welcomed Val Wright as a new walker who made our numbers for the day up to thirteen. It was cold but not cold enough to harden the mud, of which there was a great deal. We took the Black Path to Butts Close and from there crossed Charlton Road and took the path across the fields to Lower Walton Grounds. Unfortunately the path across the section over the hill and down to the farm buildings has not been restored. This meant a lot of wandering among the crop before we hit the gap into the bottom field. The track past the cottages to the bridge over the stream was a sample of what was to come as far as mud was concerned. The track along the valley was a pattern of large puddles and slippery mud. Some of us found it a difficult section to keep up any pace. Once past there we found the going easier and soon reached the old stone pits and the path through to Charlton Village. It was still very overcast but, with no rain and very little wind, it was still pleasant enough. Once through the village we walked up towards the camp and then back along Green Lane and through to the pavilion where the usual delicious refreshments were very welcome.
