First thing in the morning it did not look promising for our intended walk and picnic, as we had quite heavy showers, which fortunately cleared when we commenced the walk.

Frankie was there to meet us, but couldn't do the walk as she had to rush off to work at the airport.

Twenty-one Bassets and their owners set off (the numbers could have been accounted for several reasons; rain, the continuing increase in the price of petrol, and the fact that this venue is the longest journey for quite a number of members).

However, we set off and Sue had managed to find a walkie-talkie at home, which caused much amusement. Tony had one talkie at the front of the pack and Sue had the other at the end; and much as they tried to communicate, it seemed a better idea for Chris to just shout.

This walk is quite a favourite of mine as it covers the beautiful area near Jevington, and includes wooded and open country.

It was really pretty through the woods as the bluebells were in flower along with lots of other wild flowers.

Many other walkers were really intrigued to see the Bassets running free and we had many compliments on our pack. After the walk we had our usual picnic in a clearing in the woods and everyone sat and enjoyed the savoury and sweet selection of food and drinks (with ice) provided by the Committee.

The dogs were not left out as they also had treats in the shape of sausages, their favourite.

(Ed. As Jean mentioned, ever ready to adopt the latest technology we trialled using walkie-talkies on this walk. These had a range of about a mile - but, as Sue naturally possesses a similar, if not far greater, vocal range (who has not heard ‘LOLA! LOLA! STOP THAT! COME HERE NOW!’ gently reverberating across our gentle countryside), the equipment might be regarded as merely supplementing our existing resources).