It was an unseasonally warm and sunny day when 22 members of the Westbury Walkers set out on a nine-mile walk led by Judy Hosegood, on the edge of the Mendips.

Starting from East Harptree Woods, they walked through open countryside which gave views to Chew Valley Lake, then downhill and headed across fields towards Litton and turned along a path bordering the upper of two reservoirs, passing early spring flowers such as primroses and celandines.

The group paused in the sunshine on the dam between the upper and lower reservoirs before crossing it and following the River Chew through Coley. Climbing steadily through the beautiful Harptree Combe they passed under the magnificent pipeline built by Bristol Waterworks in its heyday.

A final steep climb took them to the old Smitham Chimney and its pond – reminders of the lead smelting industry that once thrived on the Mendip Hills. The fine weather enhanced what was a very pleasant walk with far-reaching views.