Multi day walk in and around Chichester. (11-14/09/23)

Attendees; P Bridges, N Bridges, D Peters, S Prestage, P Mitchell, P Cotterill, M Simmonds, K Maguire and H Maguire.

Day 1

After travelling down to Chichester we began the walk at just after 14.00. We left the town and followed the Chichester ship canal to the Marina looking out for signs of the old Selsey tramway which closed in 1935. We did find some track on a old bridge that use to cross the canal. We stopped at the Marina for drinks. Sue & Phil turned around at this point and caught the bus back. The rest of followed the Chichester channel up towards Appledram. After there we turned back towards Chichester through fields before being attacked by nettles and brambles, luckily I had brought my cutting tools but it didn't prevent all of us getting a sting or scratch. We all meet at the Old Cross for food and was joined by Mary's Grandson Charlie and my brother Colin. We finished drinking at the Foundry and we were joined by Dave at 21.30 the group now complete .

Day 2

Just the four of us for the start of today's walk. It began with a train journey to Amberley. On leaving the station we joined the river path that lead us on the Downs way and the only major climb of the walk. At the top we turned left off the Downs way before descending and on to the Monarchs way and down to the Arun river. A little bit of confusion happened here, due to a lack of phone signal. It was our rendezvous point to meet the other four walkers. I'd guessed that they must be in front of us and had carried on. So we also carried on. But yes, they were behind us. Contact was eventually made after Phil had climbed a lot of steps to obtain a signal. We stopped at South Stoke for a quick lunch before the final few miles following the river and taking in views of Arundel castle.

Day 3

7 of us left Chichester this morning making our way to Bognor Regis. A simple 8.0 walk along the beach today. First stop was the pier so Phil could get his picture of us on the pier. Off along the sea front we went towards Butlins. Karl did his best to blend in by taking his T-shirt off which didn't impress Mrs Maguire. After many different underfoot conditions and gazing into beach front properties we stopped for lunch at Climping beach. After here was the final section along the sand, now that the tide was on its way out. We did have a short pause as Phil had managed to drop his phone from his pocket. He retraced his steps and luckily retrieved his phone. Off the beach and passed the Fort before the road took us up to the Little Hampton Harbour bridge and a well earned pint in the Arun View. Phil & Sue joined us here. Then a short walk into to town for a few more. Some members opted for the bus back to Chichester ( Bus w****rs) with the remaining 3 returning on the train.