Bubble Walks on 4th August 2021

Pauline volunteered to lead a walk and also accepted a load of guests so we ended up with a group of sixteen walkers. Starting from the South Harting car park we wandered past the parish church of St Mary and St Gabriel and then on to Torberry Hill, although we didn't go to the top to the site on an Iron Age hill fort. After crossing the B2146 we took the Sussex Border Path to join the Southdowns Way along Forty Acre Lane. After a coffee stop and a puddle crossing we eventually reached the Main Down above South Harting before descending to a delightful picnic stop on South Harting's recreation ground. A very pleasant walk of about 4 miles.

Mustering outside the church

Crossing the field towards Torberry Hill

The roadside was host to many Campanula - Bellflowers along the way.

Tramping along the lower slopes of Torberry Hill

Backmarkers

Perforate St Johns-wort. Witches had to drink it and it was believed it made them tell the truth later when they were tortured. This handy plant has leaves which supposedly heal wounds caused by bruising or stabbing. Nowadays it is used as an anti-depressant. Rumoured to be good for many other disorders but banned in France. And we thought it was just a yellow flower.

Coffee stop

White lipped snail, favoured food of song thrushes.

In spite of the puddle, boots are looking clean.

Beautiful view over the valley.

Church spire just in view.

Last descent into Harting

Hazel nuts are developing nicely.

Cinnabar moth caterpillar, loves the poisonous common ragwort and therefore can cause a rash if handled. This one is safe from birds because of its poison and will probably spend the winter in the soil before emerging as a brilliant black and red moth in early summer.

Recreation ground pond

Picnic time

"Catherine, I'll hold the mugs - you can tell the jokes" says Andy

"That was a cracker, Catherine!"

About 4 miles.

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Peter’s small bubble walk (minus Peter) Just four girls, was around Selborne and Noar Hill nature reserve, to see the stunning wild flowers, returning by the wishing stone and zig-zag path. a lovely sunny walk, just over five miles.