the keys to the trees

Yesterday I ran like the wind into the dark woods of Porlock Weir and Horner. Though truth be told the sun shone so they were not that dark and my running is certainly not like the wind! But these woods are truly magnificent whatever the weather, and whatever the excuse.

Today Somerset Art Week is live, open studios throughout the county and lots of 'Art Happenings' to visit and become involved in. So there was a need for me to check that all was ticketty boo with the walks and especially the visitors books hidden in their secret places.

 Not happy just to put three unusual art pieces into Art Week I decided to go that little bit further and create a fourth secret walk. This would only be accessible by those who have completed the first three, so yesterday it was time to put the keys in the boxes along side the log books. With the three separate keys you would be able to put the URL together and then download the hidden tale.

The Dunster log was easy, I pass it daily and though I have to be careful not to be spotted, I can check it easy.

  Horner is less simple and the same with Porlock, each have their log at the end of the walk, so hardest first I high tailed it to Porlock Weir, parked up and then changed into my running shoes in a very busy car park. Off up the track, I was out of sight from gortex clad Nordic walking maniacs, and into the hills. Half way to the cache I realised I only had one of the key cards with me, but one was enough (better be!), and I would be back there anyway a week on Sunday to do that walk again with SAW guests, I'd just drop the rest off then. I did run all the way with the exception of the steps, and it is up hill all the way, which for running means downhill all the way back - fabulous.

Back in the car park, I then put the yellow Somerset Art Week signs up to mark my territory, they say Venue 91 and have the storywalks url on. I was thinking for those finding a venue sign without reading about the storywalks will be none plussed indeed. Where is the Art, where are the chicken illustrations, where is the cake!?

Next to Horner but a little easier as it was not so far, then home for the school run, caches checked, yellow Somerset Art Weeks signs in place and pretty nervous about reading and walking the tales out loud over the next few weeks. I am sure there will be highs and lows, peeks and troughs.

Wish me luck and look forward to seeing you on the trail...

Dunster Sunday 18th Sept 11am and 2pm walled village garden - bring something to make wishes with!

Porlock Weir Sunday 25th Sept 11am Weir car park - bring your walking shoes

Horner (Pool Bridge campsite entrance)Sunday 2nd Oct 11am - bring your cozzey for a little wild swimming!

*Note pool bridge is at the top of Horner valley and is about 10 mins drive from Horner itself.