Spring is actually here we thought as all fifteen of us set off down Portway, under the tunnel en route to Souldern. The new deer herd behind the imposing new fence were standing some distance away and under the misguided idea that we might either be bringing food, or preparing to let them out, they rushed towards the corner fence. They quickly realised their mistake and turned and ran back. We continued down the field and across to Souldern emerging into Wharf Lane. In the warm sunshine we walked along Wharf Lane to Souldern Wharf. The farmyard was extremely muddy as we passed a huge tractor like vehicle. Along the canal it was perfect. A fisherman sat absorbed in his sport and a long boat pulled away to cruise under the road bridge towards Banbury. There was more traffic than usual on the Station Road but we eventually crossed over the bridge and the road to continue along the path next to the elevated railway-track. This was particularly muddy and the mud continued beyond the motorway. The badgers had clearly been busy on the final lap towards Millers Lane. By now we were beginning to overheat and the final climb up Station Road back into the village was quite tiring. It is always good to get back to the pavilion, especially if you have ordered a jacket potato before setting out. Well deserved after 6.2 miles
