Eight Footpaths Group members set off on an invigorating sunny morning - much appreciated after so many dull days. On reaching Leigh Woods, we took a downward path shared with the SUSTRANS route to Paradise Bottom turning off the the right before the real mud started.

Away from our balmy coastal home, we found that snow had fallen even this short distance inland although most of the paths were frozen rather than snowy. Following well-signposted National Trust trails we enjoyed the sun filtering through the bare trees, which sheltered us from a light but cool breeze.

After enjoying the view across the Avon Gorge, a brisk pace brought us to the Paddock - a sheltered clearing where we enjoyed a welcome coffee break among the snow-covered logs. Back into the woods we met energetic volunteers clearing brush around Stokeleigh Camp. The nearby pond already showed waterblade shoots promising a splendid golden display in April/May.

Once back through the Parish Wall we eventually gained the car park, all agreeing that the three mile walk in the sunny winter woods had been very enjoyable even if no pub lubch was available on this occasion.

Report and photos by Liz Byrd.