WALKERS ENJOY HALLOWEEN HEAT

The choir walkers enjoyed record-breaking Halloween heat on a five-mile walk circular walk from Tatsfield on October 31. The temperature nudged 70F as they followed a route taking them along a substantial stretch of the North Downs Way, with stunning views across the Kentish Weald.

North Downs Way, with views of the Weald

Previously the North Downs Way had led them past the gated premises of the Kent super-rich and then came a steep climb onto farmland east of Westerham Hill. The walkers paused for the customary refreshment break at the Aperfield Inn before returning to the start-point, the Ship Inn at Tatsfield.

The steep haul to the crest of the downs

The best wildlife sighting was a pheasant on the path approaching Aperfield. With excellent timing, the group reached the Ship Inn at dusk and rewarded itself with a tasty supper and a pint or two of Westerham Ale.

Approaching Aperfield in late afternoon

The next walk is likely to be in the New Year.

The Halloween five: Sally and Phil Blewett, Bob Mackay, Dick Jones, Peter Gillman