There always seemed to be an atmosphere of mild excitement on this first walk of the new year. Last year, this venue was cloaked in a recent blanket of snow, and had attracted numerous hikers, tobogganers, and lycra-donned runners, but on this occasion we had this part of the Forest almost to ourselves.

The wintery sun was low in the sky but very bright and threw long shadows of our group across the ground. Several members resorted to wearing sunglasses - this out of necessity, not merely vanity.

The long, wide, track took us down to a small stream. The way was deeply rutted and required some care on the part of some of us to not slip and slide about. These conditions did not bother the hounds in any way and they charged and chased around with considerable energy.

Upon reaching the water, some of them took advantage to have a paddle and a refreshing drink, while others avoided the cold stream at all costs. It’s funny, that.

We climbed up the opposite bank and wheeled right. After some time - this is not a particularly long walk - we came to a series of frozen ponds.

In these sunny conditions the ice was probably quite thin, so we tried to dissuade any canine skaters from attempting a display. However, I saw at least one hound overrule its owner and go, somewhat gingerly, to the centre of the ice. Do we ever need reminding these are Basset Hounds?

Luckily, the surface held and he returned safely to the pack.

The return to the car park was a gentle climb and was uneventful, even when a small group of horse and riders came across us from the opposite direction. No doubt, also enjoying being out on this fabulous winter morning.

It was all great fun.

Friends walk ☞