On Wednesday 17th May ten doughty members and two guests (subsequently became new members) met outside the Friendly Inn at Frankton for the first of this year’s evening ‘D’ walks.

Throughout the previous twelve hours persistent heavy rainfall suggested that yet another wet and challenging walk lay ahead. Referring to the local TV weather forecast, only the most optimistic of walkers could have foreseen a break in the weather. Yet at the departure time of 7:00pm it was a joy to see the clouds raise with even some bright skies evident on the horizon.

The walk led by Bernie with the assistance of Vee, set off on a circular route heading south from the pub past the church of Saint Nicholas. After passing the fishponds with grazing deer just beyond, the group left the lane and ascended the first of seven stiles on the walk.

All of the one-step stiles in the area seemed to be that much higher than normally encountered

Striding through the fields toward the river Leam, the first of the evening’s encounters with the ever inquisitive and excitable young bullocks was made. As usual, hurried progress was made with an occasional glance over the shoulder at the quickening approach of the oncoming herd.

Continuing through the two small occupied (horse) paddocks, the group emerged on to the A423 just outside the village of Marton. Crossing the road, the walk continued down to the swollen river and then parallel through the sheep filled fields toward the Fosse Way.

A short break and attendance record was taken by a bend in the river just before the Fosse bridge. It was sad to the see the scourge of fly tipping evident, with what appeared to be a deposit of builder’s rubbish out of sight of the road next to the hedge.

After emerging in to the lay-by on the Fosse, a brief walk on the grass verge was made before turning right in to Barn Lane. Re-emerging at the end onto the A423, with a short walk along the pathway, the group entered the lane leading toward Windmill Hill.

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