Walk graced by record-setting women

Twelve walkers gathered at the Skimmington Castle on Reigate Heath on July 25.  They included four women – a record proportion – of whom Hilary Smith, widow of choir stalwart Peter, was making her walk-group debut. 

Light and shade on delightful level ground

The walkers departed along a narrow path past Littleton Manor Farm and onto Trumpetshill Road. Although we were retracing a previous 2018 route, Navigator Dave was briefly disoriented at a path crossroads near Little Santon Farm. Fortunately he recovered his sense of direction and led the group down to the Rice Bridge, one of the few local crossings of the River Mole. Close to the bridge the group viewed a WW2 pillbox, one of a number in the area constructed alongside the river as part of London’s defences.

Posing at the Dolphin (NB four women)

The group crossed the bridge and continued westwards, enjoying the rare luxury of flat ground on choir walks. After turning north, they followed an alternating meadow and woodland path with glimpses of the winding River Mole to the left. Care was needed in crossing the river on the narrow road bridge at Betchworth, and the Dolphin pub soon loomed into sight to provide mid-way refreshment.

Skirting wheatfield near Greensand Way

The return leg followed the Greensand Way, starting with a gentle ascent up a quiet country lane. Then came a very steep, but mercifully short, flight of steps. The group waited nervously at the top as each walker safely completed the ascent. The going was easier across fields and along tracks until we reached Reigate Heath Golf Club. Care was required crossing the course as there were golfers and balls flying in all directions, but all reached the safety of the clubhouse and Reigate Heath windmill on the summit. 

There was a surprise for those who had not been on the 2018 walk as Dave had obtained the key to open the windmill – revealing a church hidden inside. The acoustics were tested with My Lord and African Prayer before the final descent and ascent back to the Skimmington Castle. Huge portions of food were  consumed with Dick Jones delighted that for once he was not (quite) the last to be served...