We walked this way exactly a month ago, on 17 April, in fine spring weather. Today, the weather is showery (yet again!), and some of the showers could be heavy. Our jackets are waterproof, and a cap will keep me dry on top, if the worst happens. It doesn’t, fortunately, and near the top of Round Hill, feeling warm, I take it off. We’re rewarded within a minute or two by a brief light shower of soft hailstones, which stops when I put the cap back on. Must take it with me more often!

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We’re walking along the Harton road from Ticklerton, passing along the way the site of Harton Road station. The railway closed almost 70 years ago – but there’s the old station, just visible through the trees, looking well-maintained and well-loved. From Harton, we’ll head towards Eaton, passing early purple orchids and a pair of gobbling turkeys. Crossing under the route of the old railway again, the sky behind us is looking ominous – and then there are a couple of deep rumbles of thunder. We’re almost back at Ticklerton – will we stay dry? Yes, we made it! (One of these days we’re going to get soaked…)

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It could rain this afternoon: it’s trying to rain as we put our boots on, but it should only be light – we could stay dry. As we leave the car, a few drops are falling, but by the time we’re in the woods, it’s stopped. Nevertheless it’s damp underfoot, and everything is moist, rain-washed – and green! In the woods on Benthall Edge, the world is green – it’s a great place to be.

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… of precipitation, according to the Met. Office. (Does that mean there’s a 10% chance that it will rain at some time during the hour – or that it will probably rain for 6 of the 60 minutes?) It did rain (very lightly), for perhaps no more than 6 minutes – at just the right time for a chocolate stop under some leafy trees… Other than that, a fine afternoon, a little warmer than of late, and very pleasant in the quiet lanes around Church Preen.

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It could be tricky… There’s a short sharp shower just as we’re getting into the car, but we could be lucky after it’s passed… With bright sunshine (at first) and puffy white clouds, it’s a technicolour day, perfect for this wander around quiet lanes near Kenley and Harnage Grange. The most extensive view, to the border hills, sadly is hidden by a tall hedge – but the camera, held high, can see over it… Lastly, there’s cake to be had, to round off an enjoyable afternoon (and we were lucky – stayed dry!)

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