Thirteen naturalists boldly braving the weather, strode up from Pycombe old A23 cul-de-sac to the summit of the first hill.
From 15 registrants there was a couple of pre-advised no shows and a couple of retirees after stile four.
The remaining eleven stalwarts descended a long flight of steps to arguably one of the finest native orchid sights in Sussex. It was here, eleven years ago that I met the then President of the Ramblers Association, by the way.
Brownie points were awarded to Gloria for first spotting an emerging (almost certain) fly orchid.
To see how they appear in flower please see https://sussexrambler.blogspot.com/2010/06/fly-orchids-and-president-of-ramblers.html
Hundreds of Early-purple orchids were just beautiful. Some pic's taken in fine weather and as a trailer for BAHR next nature walk on Thursday 20 May 2021 please see https://sussexrambler.blogspot.com/2016/05/sexual-deceit-native-orchids-of-sussex.html
The weather forecast for 13:00hr on today's walk was ominous and fortunately the downfall on the Downs just west of us passed us by as we descended. One member (me) was full of praise for the conservation work of "The Friends of Wolstonbury" www.wolstonbury.com Twice a month in normal times their work parties are terrific fun and new members are very welcomed with FREE chocolate biscuits and hot drinks [in normal times].
Finally, as we neared the end, a good impression of having enjoyed themselves was given by the survivors.
My thanks to attendees for your encouragement. More nature walks with BAHR will be posted in future when, hopefully, a more traditional alternative walk will be available on such day -- catering for all interests.
