English Ramblers, People of "The Book"

They met my question with puzzled looks and chorused, "There isn't any guide."

All I needed was “the book,” they said.

I hadn't a clue as to what they were talking about. Fortunately, they chose to take me under their collective wing and explain the procedures. Unlike the previous city tourist walks I had taken, there isn't one particular guide on these country walking events.

People have previously bought “the book” which describes the walk and gives them detailed directions of the route and landmarks. Then, they turn up on designated dates, also mentioned in “the book,” so that they have company.

“At this point, I was hoping maybe there might be some grouse shooters in the woods who might mistake me for their quarry. ”

Group dynamics meant that when the train arrived in Haslemere, no one wanted to be the leader. Finally, some brave soul set off with us tagging along.

I was envisioning a lovely stroll taking in the nature and maybe finishing off my roll of film. Instead, I found myself running through the forests with some hard core maniacs, oh sorry, enthusiasts.

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