Walk Report

The "much much more" included a visit to the mediaeval Aldworth Giants effigies, two pub stops, and at the end, for some, the WI Teas (and cakes) at the lock in Goring where Goring and Streatley Concert Band were performing. There were also hills galore in the early part of the walk although the going gradually got easier.

The route was via Streatley, Stichens Green, Quick's Green near Upper Basildon, a secateur-assisted loop round to Ashampstead, then Aldworth and a short loop which happened to go past what walkers on the Ridgeway 40 vividly remember as the site of the final CP before the finish. On the Ridgeway watershed just past this, we could just see rain in the far distance but it did not arrive until well after the end of the walk. The return route was through the Well Barn Estate to Moulsford and a breezy flat final two miles on the Thames Path past the sailing club in action.

The organisers of the Lock Teas were raising money for the Riding for the Disabled charity in Wyfold this year and will have appreciated the support. The thirsty and well-entertained walkers after 19 brisk miles were certainly appreciative too. Note to new and prospective members: we do not always lay all of this on ("past performance is not necessarily indicative...")

Article and words by Helen Abbott.

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