Up Brean Down

(WADAS 14.12.08, absentees: 2)

The party walked along the windy ridge of Brean Down in the bright winter sunshine. Not for the first time (15.07.07), but as ever, another unique experience.

This time the party met in the car park and walked past the burnt out remains of a wooden cabin, the brick chimney whistling nonchalantly in the breeze.

The air was crystal clear, giving spectacular views back to Weston on the mainland (minus the pier superstructure). There is talk of a massive tower to be built off the remaining steel posts, risking being toppled by the force of the wind, which was much in evidence as the group strode towards the old fort.

The sun was sinking fast as WADAS gathered up to make the return journey. Instead of taking the lower path, as originally intended, the walkers opted for a repeat of the outward route along the top. Mainly to capture the last of the warming solar rays. This time noticing some mounting goats, or were they mountain sheep? - I'm not sure I know the difference. They were hopping from crag to crag, looking very nimble.

Another interesting sight was a small fishing boat trying to get into the Axe estuary at low tide, touching ground for a few disturbed moments before giving up the attempt and heading back out to sea for a long wait in the fast approaching dusk.