The scuccess of finding the sources of the Auld has awakened a new objective, ah how we are driven by objectives.
Starting at the Blyth source (Dennington Road, Laxfield) we took an hour to find the right starting place. The first place, near the Dark Lane, on the B1118 where we last left the Alde, didn’t work. The couple also parked there said a busy road, and recommended Baddingham walks, so we headed south east to the A1120. That wood has gone, they said, Ash Die back. Indeed it had.
Another busy road, the footpath starts on a bend, it took 4 turns, until finally I parked up Clay Lane and walked down.
I crossed the Alde, a clear and ‘tidy stream’ which went around the back gardens of those on the road, across a ploughed field (no footpath), skirted Dennington Wood out into Baddington, the Alde out of sight but on right. Out on the road, Church up the hill, White Horse down. tall Alder Carr trees line this part of the road which I am usually racing through, ignornant I am driving over the young Alde river here. .
Up a grassy ride, where at the top, two delightful inhabitants guided me to their white post and an alternative way back, a bit longer. Crossed a very clean flowing Alde, down a quiet road and before turning, planned next walk – down this road. Turn into a deserted farm – Suffolk County Council farm? Marie Celeste in the growing mist. Planted pointed cyprus.
The farm exited along Clay Lane, and – it’s always a surprise to find my van still there, hand break on.
We motored down to the Dennington Queens head. Last time, only time, here, years ago, with Bob, Caroline and Bob’s brothers. Farrow and Ball still relevant. (chips or fries? I’m thinking of going to Bali on my gap year… It’s my dog, separation anxiety). Delicious pigeon breast in salad and pint of Victoria.
I thought of Mark on this walk. In an early chapter in Charlotte’s book last night, Mark recommended 3 parts in turning to plants, visit, look, (resist temptation to take a photograph) and reflect (write or draw). So here I am reflecting: The simple joy of finding the beginning of a water system with the end in the minds eye, hearing the gurgle, seeing watercress. Hoping kali will survives the walk. Frustrated with Brow’s disobedience (down!). Looking out over gentle river valleys. Reading trees, finding hornbeams.
Only 8k. Must do more tomorrow.
Kalikellett 