As the weather had been so dreadful for the last couple of months we were crossing our fingers that we would have a good day on the 22^nd, especially as we would be going back to Jill and Brian’s afterwards for their much looked forward to barbeque.

We were delighted that the Sunday forecast was ‘hot and sunny’, and were also very pleased to arrive at the walk to find thirty-two Bassets in total, plus one honorary Basset and their owners.

The walk commenced through the woods with different paths, some flat, some very uneven and steep. As I had my old lady, Annie, with me I decided that some of the walk was a bit beyond her (no comments please Tony). So I sat on a convenient bench with Terry and Judy and watched the Bassets appear out of the woods and onto a large clearing. (This is the point when Tony must take over in case anything of note happened while I was just lazing around.) We then joined the party and made our way back to the car park.

(Ed. Well Jean, the massed ranks of Basset Hounds were very well behaved on this lovely walk; seemingly as pleased as their owners to be out together on this warm, sunny day.

This regular walk followed its usual course, which presented wonderful views across the West Sussex Downland landscape.

When we reached a stone structure at a high vantage point we took the traditional group photograph - and very good Branch members and hounds looked. Somewhat bizarrely, I’ve not included it in this report, as I intend to show it as part of a collection of group shots in the next issue. After this breather the group crossed a large clearing on the way back to the car park.)

Frankie and I arrived back at Jill and Brian’s (again, no comments please, Tony) and we were all out in their lovely garden, the dogs running around, and Brian and Chris working very hard cooking various meats on the barbeque.

Jill was also working very hard and had laid out a terrific selection of pastas, salads, etc. and a good selection of vegetarian dishes. After which, we had very varied and delicious sweet courses, followed by coffee. Also before and after the barbeque, we were offered all sorts of wine, beer, juices, etc. All told it was a great meal and we all thank Jill and Brian for their hospitality.

One little point I would like to mention is Sue seemed to have been appointed as beautician for the day. It started with Annie (who is not the easiest of Bassets to have anything done to her), having her nails clipped and a hard comb, and before you knew it there was a queue.

I think Sue should start charging for this service!

I think we can all say we had a wonderful day. Again, love and thanks to Jill and Brian.

(Ed. Brilliant hospitality from Brian and Jill - a great day to remember!)