9 Walkers and 1 dog arrived at the car park in the warmth of the morning (20C). The views from the cars were superb and we set off at a good pace to Crimpton Woods. The woods themselves had a spookiness about them, it was as if they had been forgotten about and left to fall and rot. Finding ourselves on the road to Newton, we headed NW down through moorland and over the old roman road. Passing through Higher Birkett farm, we were treated to a sheep being sheared (120 sheep sheared a day the farmer reckoned), also some lively dogs and a cow that tried to hurdle a fence.  We then made our way down to Knowlemere Manor.  It was now getting hot, so much so that David’s fanta exploded when he dropped it.  We walked down to the Hodder with the views remaining in sight and on to lunch at New Laund Farm. Pauline , John T and Nelly the dog made the sensible decision to cross the Hodder and make their way back to their cars as the temperature increased  (25C now). Climbing a hill we were treated to a wonderful view of the Hodder winding through Laund Wood. Onward we strode at a hot pace (water was starting to be consumed in copious amounts by now). A little gymnastics were practiced to get over the lower Hodder stepping stones (one was missing), then a hot yomp up the side of the hill. Mileage was checked (10.5 whoops) and onward we went.  The final stint provided stunning views of the Trough.  With a final pull up to the cars we made it for 3pm (well Harry did). The remaining walkers staggered up the hill in 27C heat, finally completing  12.5 miles, which seemed a lot more given the heat and strong sun.  A walk with a view , just a pity it was too  hot - Pauline / John , you made the right call.................