To organise the first outing of the year for the day after Table Ladies Night might be regarded as optimistic, but 17 assembled in the spring sunshine complete with 3 canines in support.  This was soon nearly down to 2 as Rex’s hound was spotted in the distance making an early bid for freedom.   

The 6 mile route was one of the prettiest of walks with a huge variety of scenery.  As 2 pubs were also included, the event had the typical necessities of 41 Club.  The distance was less than 6 miles with an 'escape' after 4, not required as one pub still remained. 

About half a mile along Pettiford Lane at Wootten Wowen, a signed bridleway leaves the road.  Here we joined ‘Monarch's Way’; part of the escape route of Charles II after his defeat at the Battle of Worcester in 1651.

This stretch soon crossed the Stratford upon Avon Canal and climbed along the bridlepath into Austy Wood where a dense carpet of bluebells confirmed the arrival of spring.  Then the move into bright sunshine and spring meadows as the group descended to Cutler's Farm  Once through the yard and a photo call, we were to rise again, this time along the elevated edge of Knowle Wood.  At the crest, we turned right and descended slightly to rejoin Monarch's Way.  A  footpath off to the left took us to the crossing of two paths.  Ahead was the way to cross the stream serving the fine lake at Edstone Hall.  The road beyond delivered us to the Golden Cross Inn at Bearley and a stop for re hydration.