Janet Clow writes: Eight walkers joined me to revive a walk which Martin and I have led many times over the years, but which has been a little neglected of late. The heat of another sunny day was tempered by a refreshing breeze. Areas of woodland provided welcome shade as we made our way downhill towards Fingest (photo 1), along to Turville and up the long hill to Ibstone church, where we had a break. We circuited back round to Turville via another hill, admiring the view as we descended to our lunchtime destination. Lunch in the churchyard was followed by a drink at the Bull and Butcher, where the erection of a recalcitrant parasol, provided a challenge for some of us, and entertainment for the rest. Suitably refreshed, we continued on a flat route to Skirmett, the usual hill being omitted as a concession to summer “social” walks. We walked uphill into Hatchet Wood, where a number of trees had been felled, making the onward route seem a little ambiguous. It became clear that having walked the route three years previously was no substitute for a proper recce! One or two phones were whipped out and consulted and everyone waited patiently while an instant recce was undertaken, and we were soon on our way again. We made our final descent to Fingest (photo 2) followed, perhaps a little wearily, by the inevitable ascent to Cadmore End. Thanks to all who came to enjoy the walk, the views and, most of all, each other’s company.
