(Ed: As Frankie was working, and I was blighted by ‘flu so consequently Jean and her pack were without transport we were all unable to attend this walk. Miranda kindly slipped into reporting mode and supplied the following piece.)

The weather forecast was for rain all day, but miraculously none fell on Ashdown Forest during our walk. However numbers were down, with only twenty-one hounds attending. Deterring some prospective walkers were reports of a possible mini-tornado.

Although several regulars were unable to make it, we were joined by at least one first timer - Fiona with Bertie.

The hounds all set off at a spanking pace across the sparse Ashdown Forest until reaching a woody path which unexpectedly opened out onto a panoramic vista, where the hounds and humans rested.

The walk then continued gently downhill, where it was decided to take the longer route, despite the slippery, muddy, approach to a bridge which crosses a stream. No human casualties to report! This was a very enjoyable walk - lovely scenery, happy hounds, and convivial human company. And pleasant weather!

Back in the Broadstone car park, Basset Hound transport came in several shapes and sizes - ranging from Lainey and Chris’ enormous motorhome, Amèlie Les Vins (which is Basset transport to the Ashdown Forest and France); and Sue’s hatchback with four very well-behaved Basset Hounds. These came from a variety of beginnings and are now so integrated that very little personal space is needed - yet peace reigns!

Words & images by Miranda Harris _©2013

(Ed: There were a few comments on Facebook, prior to the walk, about the forecasted poor weather. In response, our webmaster posted this,

Whether ‘tis Nobler in the mind to suffer
The Wind and Rain of horrendous Storms,
Or to don Rainwear against a precipitate Sea,
And by opposing them: to sleep content.

Quite the Bard of Ditchling!)