Seven eager members met this morning at Parc Pale car park just behind Boltons Bench ready to stretch our legs and appreciate the fresh air. 

Crossing the Beaulieu road and then through a rather imposing wooden gate we plunged into the trees and within 5 minutes we were almost surrounded by a sea of bluebells.    We were lucky as we thought we may have been too late to see them at their best.    Carrying on there were a couple of other patches of them to be admired before we came upon a wood carving of the Bisterne Dragon which we’d seen a couple of times on prior walks.   

Following a smell of burning wood we soon came upon the forest charcoal burners who were pleased to explain the process to us; from the cut ash branches to a bag of black charcoal all produced in a most ecological way in sealed ovens.  What we assumed was smoke is actually steam from the new wood but it still made your eyes water as the breeze wafted it around.    A lot of the final product is sold to upmarket hotels, etc, but it can be bought direct from a few other outlets for your own bar-b-ques.    Apparently it’s top quality with no additives and you can be ready to cook  in about 10minutes from first firing. 

Another quarter mile of walking and we were back at the entrance gate  and across the road to the parking area.    Then it was cheery goodbyes and a big thank you to Ingrid and Brian for arranging the morning.

Ken.