Once
again 12 (number variable as I can't remember who came) good men and true
gathered in the early morning gloom surrounding the sleepy village of
Aberford.
There
was little conversation; each man locked within their own private thoughts,
contemplating the trial to come.
Would
it rain, would there be puddles, would the old familiar furrow be in its
usual place or moved 10 cms by sloppy ploughing, could we yet again smuggle
out several tons of farmers field secreted about our boots, would the
"Greyhound" be open.
Little
did they know what a dire turn of events would befall them before dusk fell
that day.
Good
news, Lead Church is still standing and the Greyhound was open.
Moral support arrived during refreshments in the shape of Jim, Charles and
Smithy. Smithy deserving particular mention for also offering sustenance
in the shape of an excellent game pie. Smithy- I won't have a word
said against your pastry. After 3 pints of refreshment the walk
recommenced leaving Jim, Charles and Smithy bravely remaining to offer moral
support to anyone who might arrive at a later date.
Meanwhile we battled on to the
"Ash Tree" where the high point of the day occurred. During
the intervening year a new brew had been discovered and offered for sale.
First impressions were generally favourable with few dissenters (Sean?).
Out of respect for Sean and because its not seemly to rush I suggest further
research be carried out into its efficacy on an ad hoc basis and a committee
convened on next year's walk to reach a formal decision.
Now the good/bad news.
Good news- for the first time ever we arrived back at Aberford in
daylight. Bad news-we were not unduly delayed by the bar staff of the
Crooked Billet. Lynching has regretfully been discouraged in the new
millenium and although not strictly illegal I feel it would not be fair to
stick pins in any effigy of the landlord.
It
also befalls me to report that despite our efforts rust has not yet
occasioned the collapse of the 'pylon' however do not be downhearted lads
I'm sure we will succeed in the end.
Ron Fairbairn