Our third return to Alfred's Tower encouraged a surprising 16 hounds on a bitterly cold Mother's Day to find new paths amongst the Stourton Estates ably led by Heather with Malcolm shepherding up the rear. The lack of rain over the past few weeks brought about a relatively mud free walk and the trees sheltered us from the biting east wind that brought snow to the south coast.

The pack behaved itself - only a few tormenting a new black terrier scrap (Tiggy?) - that seemed to enjoy being chased and harried. A glimpse of a few deer encouraged a couple of hounds to give chase deep into the woods, but both were recovered. Some spring lambs defied the cold and seemed unafraid of our tightly held leads.

The Spread Eagle at Stourton provided some welcome shelter and piping hot chocolate while as usual we were the centre of attention amongst NT visitors. An hour later we were back at our warm motors after a most enjoyable 5-6 miles.

Mark & Suzette enjoying the hot choc at the Spread Eagle.

Guy in contemplation.

Felled clearing

Guy's three: Maude, Jessica, Alice.

Sam & Mark nearly home.
(Three pics above from Guy)