A patch of blue sky and an optimistic forecast. We leave Bideford and carry on northwards up the west bank of the River Torridge. The shore is littered with derelict vessels of all shapes and sizes but at one point we climb up into a lovely stretch of woodland with a photo opportunity.

So back to Fremington Quay, this time with Damian and this time we cross the bridge and carry straight on along the Tarka Trail.

Once upon a time, a long long time ago, I set out for Barnstaple in North Devon to go walking – since then I have not had my boots on – work is a curse.

The following morning I am back on Wembury Beach having been given a lift by my BnB hosts. The Great Mew Stone still dominates the horizon – it is slightly misty. 

Driving a bit too fast down very narrow country lanes, my taxi turns a corner, comes face to face with a police car and screeches to a halt – we have stopped exactly where I want to get off – amazing.

Areas of outstanding natural beauty are sometimes a logistical nightmare – this one comes in the shape of the rivers Avon, Erme and Yealm, not to mention Plymouth Sound. All of these stretches of water have to be crossed, one way or another and I suppose I can count myself lucky that it’s the summer season when the ferries are actually in operation. 

It seems so long ago………………….and it has been, but hopefully I am now back on track. Two months to say goodbye to Mum but I think she’s still with me – in the sea spray, the sound of waves breaking on the rocks, the shy morning sun, the gentle rain and warmth of the colours of Autumn.

Much of the path today is stony and when skirting a sharp drop down to the sea it’s exciting. 

It is a beautiful day as I head down a quiet green lane, past the village church and onto a narrow tarmac road leading to Blackpool Sands. 

Damian has gone back to London early this morning and I must follow later in the day but I can just squeeze five miles in before I go.