Just don’t mention the heat! I’m sure the nine members who turned up for this one enjoyed a somewhat challenging walk, although they didn’t quite know what was in store for them before we commenced. It all started with cake which we attempted to eat before the walk began; you can imagine how we coped with chocolate cake at 32º C (sorry I mentioned the heat again). After cleaning our hands of well melted chocolate, our route took us past Smithams chimney before crossing a few fields and onto our descent of the coombe, where many fallen trees needed to be climbed over or limboed under, plus a brook to traverse. I was surprised we had only four fallers, including myself. By this time, among the 30 species we had recorded, we encountered Garden and Willow Warbler, Blackcap, Siskin, Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, Goldcrest, Song Thrush, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Coal, Great, Blue and Long-tailed Tit, five Red Kites, Buzzard and a soaring Sparrowhawk whilst admiring fantastic views of Chew Valley Lake. After our somewhat successful navigation through the coombe with lunch approaching, we decided to cut the walk short. Luckily we did, as our route back saw 30 Swifts flying, calling and swooping between us, as well as Swallow and Chaffinch before all participants safely returned to their cars. Did I mention how hot it was? Thanks to Caron for helping me lead and for keeping the bird count. (Thanks to Graham for leading) Graham Blacker