So out we trod with patches of snow remaining. No wind at all so quite remarkably warm. Down past Whiteworks and over the Strane. Across to Swincombe works; on the way many walls and barbed wire to surmount. Near the works a remarkable set of three standing stones - worth another look. To the works and up to the disused leat to the wall for a cuppa. Onwards to Childe's Tomb then to find that very elusive path that heads down, down to the mire. Unerringly to the bridge and circuitously to the crossing point. But, the very special polypipe cross has disappeared and is in urgent need of replacement. Up and back to the ever reliable Plume. Where much discussion took place on the day's news, something about a budgie for an expiring nation. But still, we are all looking forward to getting our pennies back for all the wallop we have put away over the years.