A bit overcast this morning so what’s best to wear for the walk today? Last minute decisions were being made prior to leaving home. Suitably attired, 6 members plus a neighbour and a dog, arrived in good time at the cricket pitch at Bolton’s Bench. Spot on 10am we were off making our way over the ridge and dropping down towards, and across, the Beaulieu road then through a gate as we plunged into the forest on a cycle track. After a couple of hundred yards it was turn right onto a forest track leading through an environmental area. Soon the first bluebell was spotted, then another two and gradually larger and larger clumps before reaching areas of almost sea blue. We admired their beauty, but lacking the sunshine they could have looked more outstanding and spectacular. Still glad to have had the opportunity to see them though. Continuing on the trail we eventually came out onto another cycle track. And so we progressed using trails and tracks in turn passing areas where trees were newly planted and also where they had been cut and felled under forest management. It, too, was interesting to walk alongside stretches of wattle fencing (presumably of hazel wood) used to separate conservation from general accessible areas. Chatting along the way, with the sun eventually showing its face, we were soon back through the entrance gate and over the road as we returned to the car park at the Bench and then home having walked 3 to 4 miles in about 75 minutes. Happy faces all round and big thank yous to Ingrid and Brian for another good and varied outing. Ken.