| Report by Bob Tyler PLEASE SIR! CAN I HAVE SOME MORE?
It may well be a hackneyed Dickensian saying, but it was the heartfelt
attitude of the intrepid hikers on Bob's inaugural trek into darkest
Surrey.
This really was something to try again as it was made most pleasant by the
happy inclusion of a few non-running partners. Notably Les Henderson's, Chris
Peppiat's and Bob Tyler's.
Well ten of us stood in the overcast car park at Newlands corner wondering
if the weathermans forecast of 10% chance of showers meant that they were
guaranteed. But Bob assured us that he was on first name terms with the
powers that be and the sun would be out by the time we got to St Martha's
Church.
We waited until 09:52 just to make sure Mike Blake did not pull his usual
trick of turning up 5 minutes late. Then off we set, Les steaming off ahead
and Bob at the back trying to drag the party down to a more sedate pace.
After about an hour walking we came out of a copse to a field and the
worried questions started to circulate.
"'Ere Les are you sure we should have turned right back at the gunpowder
factory?
"We seem to be in Africa."
" Don't panic it's only a field full of Llamas."
As for Bobs ornithological skills.
" What's that bird Bob?
"Dunno I haven't got my glasses."
Anyway we got to the Seahorse in Shalford at around 12:30 and had a two
hour lunch. All members of the party will recommend this establishment as
the food and service was particularly excellent.
As we left the pub the sun started to break through, and sure enough by the
time we got to the church we were bathed in brilliant sunshine and treated
to some beautiful views of the Surrey countryside.
We have a half-hour break to soak up some rays, architecture or history.
What ever takes your fancy. Several members having their own different
guide books and some swapping of historical facts is quite common.
Then half-hour back to car and reluctantly home.
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