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The bus boys go walking

For the first time, all six walkers who gathered at the Aperfield Inn near Biggin Hill on September 9 had come by public transport. Only social member Ted Mouat arrived by car.

Five of the six bus-riders (photos John Parker)

The group had remembered the previous "wettest walk" and even Polly Perkins and John Parker were dressed appropriately as we set out into the drizzle. However within 20 minutes the rain had stopped.  The route followed footpaths southeast to the North Downs Way and a gloriously open stretch with stunning views over the Kent Weald. We then headed north into the network of valleys on the dip slope of the escarpment, requiring sound leadership to ensure all stayed together and on course.

Striding out in open fields 

An outbreak of the tree disease "ash dieback" meant that the footpath had been diverted away from some dangerously unstable trees.  Dave, who had discovered this during a recce for the walk, led the group back to the original path. He announced the good news that the half-time pub in Cudham was very close, but tempered this with bad news that it was up a two long steep flights of steps.

Rare downhill stretch during the walk

Last to arrive at the top was Polly, dripping with sweat under his fine weatherproof anorak. He was delighted to collapse into the Blacksmith's Arms and sup a pint of fine ale along with the other exhausted walkers.  Then it was back down a steep path over an open field onto a narrow lane leading back up towards Biggin Hill.

At the top, we could see the Old Jail pub but resisted its tempting attractions and turned though Cherry Lodge Golf Club. We were soon back into the Aperfield Inn where we were joined for dinner by JP's friend and former guest walker Andrea Scott. Then it was back home by bus (246 and 119) again for us all.