Chichester Yacht Club Magazine February 2020 | Page 19

Charlton Forest Ramble - 11th January 2020
By Stella and David Ingram
The first of the New Year set off with 41 ramblers many of
whom were conscious of the need to walk off the excesses of
the Christmas season. We set off from the Fox Goes Free in
Charlton to climb into Charlton Forest with a forecast of little or
no rain but plenty of wind and cloud. We followed many of the
myriad paths without getting lost - all well signposted as to foot-
paths or bridleways but as usual no destinations displayed! The
drizzle was unkind at a coffee break in a large clearing
marking the junction of eight diverse pathways. We then com-
pleted a circuit back to North Lane where we started and along
which some of the party took the shorter route back to the
pub. Others took the longer route back by climbing into the
trees round Levin Down before dropping back to the road to
the pub.
Thirty-nine of us enjoyed an excellent lunch and we were well
and expeditiously served by the staff (undoubtedly helped by
our submitting menu orders the week before in spite of the
need to chivvy all to respond in a timely manner). By chance
they held a raffle and our party nearly wiped the board with
prizes including cuts of ham, chops, steaks and a chicken as well
as wine. The worthy cause was Guide Dogs for the Blind.
We thank all who took part, making it an excellent occasion.
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