This evenings meeting was a hike from Sharpenhoe Clappers ( a local National Trust site ) the Clappers is that it is an ancient woodland and chalk escarpment with fantastic views, and occupies a steep spur on the northern Chilterns escarpment in southern Bedfordshire. It comprises the earthwork remains of two terraces on the northern slope and two banks which run across the spur to the south. It was believed to be an Iron Age promontory fort however a small archaeological excavation carried out in 1979 suggested that the site has a more complicated history. the Hill is approximately 90 metres above the surrounding countryside so the views are amazing. Worth a visit if you get a chance!
We met up the Clappers at 6.45pm with a 7pm start. We hiked across the top of the clappers and followed the footpath down the side of the hill, some of the paths on the way down had clearly not been walked for a while as they were overgrown and some were even impassable but we made it safely down the hill and followed the footpaths till be were greeted by a small herd of cattle who were interested in what we were up to (and what Olivia had to eat..... Doritos) and so came to investigate, through the field we followed the pathway that runs along side the Barton bypass without walking on or near the road. On the walk we encountered lots of interesting wildlife, birds, bees and butterflies, we saw hazelnuts growing on trees, and sloes too. the hike was approximately 4 1/2 kilometers (about 3 miles) and took us just over an hour to do so we made good time. Back at Unity Hall we had hot dogs and a game outside and finished the evening with 3 investitures - Amy, Seth & Dominic. We are increasing in our numbers with 25 now invested Scouts.
