Purleigh (8.4kms/5.25miles)

21 of us gathered at the Bell, Purleigh for the first walk of 2017, a record number for the group, and once again the sun shone and the forecast mist and cold didn’t materialise. We were also pleased there was no wind as this walk is exposed; how lucky we were.

Heading south from the pub we descended slightly and for a short distance followed the St Peter’s Way heading in a westerly direction.  Branching off from it we climbed across farmland to a point where, had it not been for the distant mist, we would have had good views of Maldon and the River Blackwater.

Crossing many grassy fields we were able to keep a fairly good pace over what was a relatively flat landscape; the only climbs being at the beginning and the end of the walk.  The four stiles proved no problem except for the last one where two enthusiastic horses joined the queue to climb over and caused alarm to some of the group.

The last climb took us up from the vineyard to Purleigh church where we did get the views of the Blackwater.  We then enjoyed good food and much cheerful chatter over lunch in the Bell, warmed by the log fire.

Diane Caulkett

Next Walks – Tuesday February 28^th will be led by Sue Bridgman – meet Fox & Hounds, Tillingham 10.00.(between 4-5 miles)

Tuesday March 28^th meet car park of Izumi Restaurant, Maldon 10.00 8kms/5miles