March 2026 – Everton
March saw the continuation of depleted numbers, with only two cars making the journey to Bedfordshire for the third walk of the year. In an effort to save on fuel costs during a time of upheaval, Pheasant Tom managed to cram four of the group into the Kia for the long journey to Everton, where they were met by reliable Dave. This also involved an elongated round trip to rouse Stu and make sure his recycling was done before the journey proper actually began. The Pheasants were treated to a reasonable day with periods of sunshine on this Mario-inspired walk.
Everton and the surrounding RSPB Sandy Warren provided innumerable terrains and vistas for the gang. Not to be confused with the Scouse version, this Everton provided all the necessary requirements for a starting location, including parking, a pub, and a village hall. The walk commenced with a welcome downhill section as the group descended Warden Hill, enjoying the panoramic views offered, while also navigating the various dead baby mammals that mysteriously littered the open field.
With an enviable reputation for unearthing urban landscapes of unrivalled beauty with subtle repeating patterns, Mario soon had everybody following a Roman road bedecked with ornate telegraph poles, majestic pylons and a soupçon of sheep to balance out any complaints. Approaching Sandy, the group skirted Caesar’s Camp fort and eventually entered the picturesque Sandy Warren. This allowed the team to rest along with taking time out to enjoy 2nd helpings of hot cross buns, which had been supplied by Bellars.
Following a quick browse round the RSPB shop and toilet break, it was soon back on the road and past the Sandy Heath transmitter. With the weather closing in, it was a long trudge back to the Thornton Arms, where the interior layout gave a cramped feeling exacerbated by locals thinly spread out around the bar.
