A walk from Hassocks to Brighton led by Lynne. Saturday 30th June
Most of the walkers undertaking the walk over the South Downs went by train; Julie and I decided to drive down. It was a bit worrying going through a rain storm on the M25/M23, but the skies cleared nearer to our destination and we meet the rest of the group at Hassocks Station in the sunshine.
On the South DownsThe weather held good all day; with lots of clouds skittering by and with quite a stiff breeze it made a good day for walking. We walked steeply uphill past the Jack and Jill windmills, and once up on the South Downs as well as the lovely clear views on both sides the flora was spectacular. There were Orchids, Poppies & Bellflowers in abundance and in the skies above was the sound of Skylarks and Meadow Pipits (thank you Paul for the bird song lesson).
The walk was excellently prepared and led by Lynne, although most of us did feel that it must have been a bit more than the suggested 12 miles. In fact it turned out to be just over 14 when measured afterwards.
Photographing the Poppies It certainly felt like it when we finally came off the downs and past the racecourse to Brighton Marina! The group split up then, with some of us heading straight back to the station and some heading off for fish & chips, I believe!!. For those of us heading to the station the sight of Clive getting off the bus and crossing the road to Brighton Station gave us such a laugh. Sorry not to give you more sympathy Clive, but it was a sight to see, and I hope that you recovered well after a nice hot bath when you got home!
Thank you Lynne for an excellent walk - it was a brilliant day.
Sue S., 1st July 2012