Monday 20 April 2026 - Church Stretton

After our successful visit to see Richard and Cathy in February, a follow up was planned. Meet for a coffee in Church Stretton, go for a walk, then visit aunt Jackie for a cuppa.

It didn't quite work out like that, as Jackie insisted on providing lunch. Who were we to refuse that kind offer? The 'walk' aspect of our gathering was further affected by some recent or pending knee replacements.

So it was just me and Sue, and Neil and Liz, for the walk. That followed leisurely refreshments at the Mayfair Community Wellbeing Centre. (I think Richard went to the wrong place, but never mind.)

A convenient ginnel led from near the CoOp car park to a path that headed steeply through bluebell woods towards Hazler Hill .

Sue admired this blossom as we ascended the steep slope.

Eventuallythe path leveled out, and we enjoyed passing through an open area before re-entering the woods.

Sticky Mouse-eared Chickweed

Back briefly on tarmac, and a pig was spotted in the hedge.

And piglets!

Then more woods, more bluebells, and a good view to the centre of Church Stretton.

Yellow Archangel

A final path through a field took us to a lane that led back to our cars.

Here's our 5.8km route. It seemed to suit the day perfectly.

Then a visit to Jackie, where Piers and Anna were helping with the catering. By now, Andy and Julie, and Richard and Cathy, were all there, so it was a jolly bunch of eleven who sat down to enjoy Jackie's lasagne and accompaniments, followed by a delicious pavlova provided by Anna.

A lovely occasion. We should meet up more often.

Good luck with the knees, ladies, and with your foot, Richard.

Note: who are these people? Well, Liz, Richard, Andrew and Piers are some of my cousins, and Jackie is our aunt (Piers' mother).