On Saturday, March 1, there was only one place to go for our quarterly special walk. Silcox laid on what must be their newest and smoothest coach for us, so the long ride quickly passed. So it was that 38 keen walkers gathered in the car park at the National Park Centre in Britain's smallest city, St. David's.

As Paul started the walk briefing, an Air Training Corps band struck up and marched towards us. Just as we thought that our fame must be growing to receive such VIP treatment, the band wheeled away to lead the Dragon Parade into the city centre. They were followed by hordes of children in all kinds of dragon and Welsh- themed costumes.

Unfortunately, because of the walking conditions, we could not follow our usual coastal routes. We split into two groups, all bound for St. Non's, but by different routes. The larger Steady Eddies group, led by Barbara with Erica, Janice and Val in support, took the clean route via the back streets of St. David's. The walkers enjoyed seeing the quaint cottages, even if it was more about avoiding mud than anything else.

Paul, with Brian in support, led the Speedy Gonzales group down the lane to Caerfai and onto the coast path. As we walked down the lane, a number of very tired half-marathon runners were struggling up the hill the other way. Just at that moment, we seemed to be having more fun than they were.

As we went along the sky lightened and it became bright if not quite sunny. Coming into the car park at Caerfai we were greeted by the always stunning panorama of St. Bride's Bay, from Skomer in the south round to Ramsay in the north. It is captivating, no matter how often you have seen it before. The coast path was better than earlier in the week, but with enough muddy patches to make everyone pay close attention to where they were walking.

By the time the Speedy Gonzales group visited the holy well at St. Non's, the Steady Eddies had disappeared back up the lane to the city. Both groups returned to Cross Square via Goat Street, dodging cars in the lane. The Speedy Gonzales group lived up to their name, with their lead walkers finishing at the same time as the last of the Steady Eddies.

Cross Square was abuzz with bustling crowds around the market in the square. The walkers all dispersed to seek refreshment and further amusements before returning to the smart coach for the journey back to Tenby.

Tomorrow (Saturday) meet near Sainsbury's for a town walk starting at 10:30, led by Erica.

P.M.