Such a Treasure

Stephen has joined the prestigious senior section of WADAS and a level access walk with plenty of rest stops was organized to mark this occasion. (8.06.08: absentees: 1)

Certain elements of 'hashing' (chalk and flour markings with frequent treasure and drink stashes along the route) were added to the classic WADAS formula.

The mystery trail started in Easter Town and meandered along Somerset byways and footpaths. Although the weather was bright and hot there were puddles left over from the recent storms. These were concentrated around the gates, well trodden and further augmented by cattle waiting to cross from one field to another. Birthday-Steve searched one of these for sunken treasure, but emerged from the soup to declare it clear.

The first booty to be found was a tasteful birthday badge, followed by several bottles of ale, bubbles, balloons, walking socks, party blowers, a digital map distance measurer and a Rhea egg following up the end of the list. These caches were secreted under hawthorne bushes and the like.

Half way around the party stopped for a delicious birthday cake break in a shady glade, washed down with some of the aforementioned ale and white wine.

Another treat was in store for the weary travellers when the flour trail led once again to Easter Town and a memorable barbeque brought to perfection by non-Birthday-Steve.

Picnic in a shady glade