Duncton Long walk on 9th June 2023

The masochistic five gathered in Duncton for Jay and Lindsay’s 12.7 mile undulating jaunt with a promise of liquid refreshment at the end. At the start we walked the West Sussex Literary Trail to the west of the main road with Jay demonstrating the M. Python technique for stile crossing as we headed towards Ridlington Farm where the signage confused us simple walkers. Following the compacted track through the farm we entered Duncton Common where the trees offered shade from the sun onto the Serpentine Trail, crossing into Lavington Plantation passed one of the Serpentine sculptures as we made our way across the heath. Our coffee break was used to increase the area of exposed legs so we could cool down, and scare the local wildlife. Skirting around Upper Norwood, we came to Lavington Stud Farm. The significant ascent of Woolavington Down where the Ash die back has scarred the landscape got us onto the South Downs Way. Our lunch break was enhanced by the indubitable cerebral development in our understanding of the universe and the English language. The South Downs Way bore us across the main road again, up to Burton Down where we left to approach the transmitter masts at Glatting Beacon. Ticking off the body parts of Scotcher’s Bottom and Denture as we passed, the display of wild Orchids on the path edges and fields added to our enjoyment. The woods at Barlavington Hanger gave respite from the heat of the afternoon including our descent before heading to the Duncton Mill Trout farm. Returning to our start, we adjourned to The Cricketers for cooling refreshments.