I set off at 9:30 later than intended but I’d forgotten the clocks changed overnight so hadn't actually slept longer. It was a cold night but peaceful. The stars were great. The tent and sleeping bag are 3 seasons, with the temperature dropping below 3 it’s right on the limit. As I write I’m huddled in my sleeping bag with lots of layers hoping for a better night? Shortly after setting off I had a slight alarm when I saw the was road closed but fortunately the track went off at that junction . Phew! I caught the fresh smell of pines just as I noticed chiffchaffs all around. The trail was largely following the course of the river Yeo, and crossed some lovely old bridges. There were Roosters calling along the valley making me wonder if our chickens had survived suspected invasion of a mink or polecat- our bantam had mysteriously disappeared with a small burrow discovered under the wire... I stopped for elevenses and a rest - water and date slice - the backpack was not my friend this...