We had a most successful walk in 2010 and therefore became more worried and concerned that 2011 would not succeed, mainly because of the paucity of replies and the economic situation.

When the day arrived we were as usual rather busy putting up signs, checking that the Village Hall had come up with the tables, chairs, plates and cutlery etc. Then two loads of cakes, buns and cream teas arrived in the back of a car, which cheered us up no end. Shortly after this all those lovely dogs started coming down the drive with their owners – a site to behold. Our spirits were immediately lifted and we both really began to enjoy ourselves.

The weather and forecast was by this time of some concern. Nevertheless we set out and drove for about 5 minutes to the top of the moor. Despite the breeze it was still warm. But we could see clouds approaching on the horizon.

We all set off in a cheerful mood being some 15 Irish Setters, 6 English Setters and a miscellany of 10 other delightful dogs. Our canine pals were by this time all very excited and were eagerly sniffing around at the multitude of scents with tales wagging. The walk comprised some gentle climbing around various Tors, giving some superb views. The mixture of heather and gorse both in full bloom gave a wonderful colour to the moorland scene. We had various stops for the back markers to catch up and during this time Patrick tended to talk rather too much about local artefacts, archaeology and some spooky stories about Dartmoor.

Everyone seemed to enjoy it and we didn’t actually get lost.! About twenty minutes before the end the rain started, which was annoying rather than disastrous. Some of us got damp rather than soaked.

Meanwhile the short walk was taking place in Holne Chase Woods beside the River Dart, an SSSI area of nature conservation. It was a gentle walk and very suitable for the more mature of the owners and their dogs. Jane’s son Richard was in charge who has a good local knowledge of the woods. As the weather was warm, one rather elderly retriever decided to go for a swim. This was fine while it lasted but upon returning to the bank she could not climb out so Richard had to plunge in up to his waist and give her a hand!

When we all returned to the Manor for a grand tea, a lovely garden party atmosphere prevailed with all the dogs joining up, but unfortunately as it was raining so much we had to eat our tea in the verandah and the majority of the dogs were kept on leads, which is a shame as we love to see them romping together in the garden.

The raffle took place and was more successful than last year. There was some very generous participants and we thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for being so supportive, both those who came for the first time this year and of course those who came in 2010 as well. We raised even more money than was raised in 2010. The total being £1,198,70 – well done everyone.

Jane & Patrick Simpson.