We were so lucky with the weather for today’s walk, especially as last weekend was a complete wash out.

Frankie and I arrived at Water Lane Car Park, to be greeted by a very large group of Basset owners and their hounds.

Several members were on their first walk and it was great to see how enthusiastic both humans and hounds were for the “off”.

The total count was twenty-eight Bassets, two mini-Dachs and a Beagle. We also had a very young baby Basset and her owners who had called just to say “hello”, and we hope to see them all on future occasions.

The walk is very pleasant with a mixture of wooded copses and open spaces and in places distant views of the surrounding Downs.

There is a steep incline leading up to a monument, from which one has a clear view of the surrounding countryside (and which also gives a moment to recover from the climb). This always seems a good place to take a portrait of the group. From here it is a gentle walk across the valley before climbing up through the woods to the cars.

We soon arrived back at the car park and proceeded in convoy to Jill and Brian's home for the eagerly anticipated barbeque.

Here we sat in their lovely garden, drinking and chatting, while the hounds had a wonderful time chasing one another.

Our two youngest members, Rose and Euon, also had a great time as all afternoon they were inseparable.

We would all like to thank Jill and Brian for their excellent barbeque which as usual went on for a good few hours with plenty of food and drink and delightful company. For those members who came for the first time, we hope you had an enjoyable day, and look forward to seeing you on all or some of our future events.

(Ed. The Chairman and ‘first lady’s’ barbeque is always very much enjoyed.).