Posted:  Sunday, 28th March 2010

THE LONDON TRAMPERS
AT THORNDON PARK, LITTLE WARLEY
15TH MARCH 2010

Lady luck was on our side yet again, after a few weeks of very bad weather we found a window of sunshine to start the year, our first walk of 2010, when we returned to Thorndon Park.  We had last met here for a group walk in 2008.

Thirty of us met at the The Greyhound, Little Warley.
  

The Greyhound Pub, Little Warley.

Early arrivals.

After the usual ordering of meals for later, and a photograph of the group in the early morning sunshine, 26 of us started the walk with our "In-house Guides", Alan and Alison Reader, whom I must thank on behalf of the Group.  The Reader's, who live in this village, shared with us one of the many walks in the area that they enjoy on a regular basis. 

The group photo.  Click on the image to enlarge it.

A steady walk up and across the Common led us into the woodlands of the Thorndon Park, here the terrain was a mixture of up and down slopes that start to spread the group a little but our trusty tail shepherd (Mav Mills) made sure that no one slipped too far behind. 

Setting off, climbing steadily.

 At the midway point we were treated to a view that took in a large stretch of the Thames some 10 miles away.  Now we head back on a circular route. 

Taking a break, ....and our trusty tail shepherd (Mav Mills - back to camera) makes sure that no one has slipped too far behind...

 
Click on the image to read the text.

Whilst the trees are only just starting to show signs of Spring approaching (except the fossilised one), the peacefulness of the woodlands is to be enjoyed.  A short stop at the public tuck shop area allowed us to have a short rest and a cuppa if you so desired. 

 
Taking a break in the rest area. Click on the image to enlarge it.

Then it was back to the pub about 20 minutes away.

Returning to the start point. Click on the image to enlarge it.

A very nice lunch, a raffle and plenty of banter was enjoyed by all, and the sun  was still shining.  All agreed it had been a good day out.  

Text: Dave Risk    Photos: Derek Germaney, George Mann