Fotheringhay Fields 24th January 2023

Picture from Jane, report by Hilary

Is there a possibility that a maker of snowshoes could invent something to be called mudshoes? Or perhaps the producers of a famous lubricant could give us a mud-repellent version to spray on our boots?

It was difficult to appreciate the scenery fully as we traversed a couple of huge and very muddy fields from Fotheringhay towards Woodnewton.

All eyes were firmly fixed on the ground and the ever-growing cakes that attached themselves to our feet.

For a while we have all been bemoaning the low temperatures and permanently frosty days. Today offered a pleasant temperature for walking, but a bit more of a crunchy surface would have made walking rather easier.

Our leader gave us plenty of time to stamp off some of the mud and rest tight thigh muscles during the break.

The route back to Fotheringhay was mainly on much firmer field tracks, so we made good time with fewer struggling stragglers.

There had to be one more muddy section, of course… but then we suddenly realised that the magnificent 15th century church that dominates the village was just in front of us.

As always, it was enjoyable walking with the sociable group that constitutes Peterborough Ramblers and the terrain ensured we were well exercised despite the distance covered being just four miles.

Oh, by the way, did I remember to include the word ‘mud’ in my description…?