ACCESS TO OUR COUNTRYSIDE!

Today's walk was a wash-out as far as photographs went.  It was cold, drizzling and we both weren't feeling up to being photographed!  It was a stroll around our estate discussing such things, as how successful Jenny's group 'wellbeing' session had been!  However, it was good to get out into the fresh air.  Now it has turned colder, too much time is spent indoors in heated atmospheres with little or no ventilation...

Luckily for me, I was sent some fantastic images of stiles by fellow One Craft Gallery member, woodturner Phillip Davis.  Thank you, Phil - these have all been taken recently around Shepton and I recognise them from our walks.  So much has been done in the countryside around the town to make sure it is accessible to walkers.  As you can see, in the variety and number of different stiles, a lot of effort has been made to keep public footpaths and bridleways clear and useable. 

Some of the stiles look really ancient and are made from old local quarried stone. They are a delight to come across - the stories they could tell...

In this area it is the Mendip Ramblers who do the great job of checking and maintaining the footpaths.  They work closely with the District Council and install stiles, fingerposts, bridges and do some clearance work...

Above is an iconic image of Somerset - Glastonbury Tor, as seen through one of the stiles.  Another image from Phil, taken on one of his dog walks!