BHOC Committee Members, Chris and Jayne Cooper, suggested this new walk venue in West Sussex. The Club had been searching to expand our 'meets' westward to encourage members in this part of our area to attend. Twenty-two hounds arrived bright and sunny, winter morning, including members Angela and John Gisby, who were visiting after relocating to a new home in south Wales.

There proved to be ample parking spaces at the Centre, but we had to cross a not too busy road to enter a farm gate for the start of the route. All the hounds seemed pleased to be together again and we all set off across the flat, still-frozen, ground enjoying the views of the rolling South Downs.

Chris knew this area well and guided us along the perimeters of fields until we again crossed a quiet lane and eventually made our way up towards a hillside copse.

Unfortunately, the pathway eventually became a single trackway which required us to walk in single-file. This always rather hinders conversation and our party resembled a reluctant expedition to Everest base camp.

We followed the lower reaches of the wood and eventually headed back towards the direction of the car park. Chris had somehow fell back to the rear of the group. This left it for me to lead, or should I say mislead, the group a slightly longer route back to the lane.

On arrival back to the car park, everyone seemed to have enjoyed the walk on this lovely Sunday morning. I am sure this will become a regular venue on our walks programme, though, I think Chris may make a few modifications to the route in the future.