As the forecast for Sunday 14th December improved during the week, the numbers planning to join the nine-mile walk from Great Cheverell which was led by Fiona Bromley grew.
Eventually, a party of ten headed south, out of the village, to the top of Great Cheverell Hill and then beyond up as far as the Imber Range Perimeter Path with its expansive views and inquisitive cattle.
Following the Wessex Ridgeway, the group dropped into a quiet valley near Hill Bottom Farm and stopped for a break in a sheltered spot. This being the December walk, tradition dictates that the walkers enjoy mulled wine and mince pies rather than coffee. The unexpected morning sunshine made the festive treats taste extra special.
Pressing on up and over Strawberry Hill the group reached West Lavington via the church and the back of the manor. The path wound its way through a wintery woodland to reach neighbouring Market Lavington and lunch at the church and war memorial.
Refuelled, a pretty streamside path took the walkers through Beech Wood, around the limits of another manor to a beautiful sunken track leading to Park Farm and on to Littleton Panell. A series of fields and lanes, more cattle and a couple of tricky steep stiles brought the team back to Great Cheverell. A lovely mixture of windy plain and Wiltshire villages.
If you would like more information on the Westbury Walkers, please email Paddy at westbury.walkers.uk@gmail.com
Report by Fiona Bromley
