My ultimate destination was Apley Woods and when I arrived, I was disappointed. I know at this time of year the trees are mostly bare with maybe a few buds emerging. This type of scenery has a beauty all of its own. On this visit I found that many trees and bushes had been cut down leaving parts of the woods quite barren.

On my way to the woods I detoured, taking a route from one of the newly mapped Coronation walks that I was unfamiliar with. I walked it from memory after reading the walking guide to the route. I found this an interesting small detour from the routes I am familiar with.

I also detoured to find a car park in the local hospital. On my walks over the years, I had observed the car park from below and was never sure if it was part of the hospital car park. During mum’s recent stay in hospital, I was able to view the car park from above. One of the rooms she stayed in had the perfect view over the helipad and the car park beyond. Thankfully mum is home now.

Before returning home I decided to visit Leegomery Pool only to find that it too was not what it used to be. A large ‘metal’ handrail added to the steps down to the pool now dominates the view.