15/4/07 - 19 startled walkers (with 28 exposed legs) and 3 dogs met on a bright and beautiful sunny day at Godshill car park. Ascending to the church, we suffered our first casualty as one of Martin's water bottles sprung a leak. Continuing west down into the other Yar valley, we were treated to two choruses of dogs in a garden and kennels. Briefly along the road, we were passed by a several tooting cars from yesteryear which had followed us from Godshill. Continuing on down the river valley, we stopped in the rising heat for a welcome drinks break. Through well manicured farm fields and passed lovely houses, we descended into Whitwell. Starting the climb we saw some fishing lakes and plenty of cute newborn cows, donkeys & lambs. Stopping for a well earned lunch break at the top of the 56 steps, there were murmurs about the lack of shade - we'll have rain again next time! Down the other side of the hill, then north to Appuldurcombe estate where we got a free view of the red kite in the sanctuary. The party then split at the estate gates as some continued on down to the road while most of us went uphill again to view the pigs in the fields far below. More cute lambs, and finally a good covering of bluebells in the sun dappled woods, before returning to the car park (and an ice cream for the very grateful leader)

Leader - Dave

Total Distance - 8.5 Miles