Fenland trekkers, numbering 19 in all, met at Liz and Ivan's at Dorrington for a photoshoot outside Black Peter's Bar before starting out. In fact Richard had already sampled the delights of a pint, but then he had walked from Sleaford, about 6 miles, in 2 hours, so he no doubt deserved it.

Liz & Ivan led out across grassed fields and tracks, through the village of Bloxholm with its impressive architecture then on to Digby. Such was the enthusiasm that the village was reached well before opening time, giving the walkers a chance to explore the centre and read up on the history. What appeared to be a lock-up in the village, a small stone igloo type building, turned out to be a well. Mention was also made of the station (long gone), the very old stone footbridge (still there), and the RAF of course.

The Red Lion opened its doors and beckoned the thirsty footsloggers inside. Well worth the wait was the warm welcome and the range of beers - Milestones English Rose Stout (4.5%), Tom Woods Lincoln Gold (4%), Red Lion Bitter (3.6%) - brewed under the name of Ushers but part of the Marstons stable, plus the more common Doom Bar and Broadside.

The landlord evidently has been in situ for just 6 months and has tastefully refurbished the Red Lion, but at the same time brought back original features such as roof beams etc. The Red Lion at Digby (01526 321686) is planning a Cask Ale Week-end from Fri 1st - Tues 5th June - no doubt with Diamond Jubilee connections. Fenlanders settled in for a longer than usual halfway house session, some imbibers thought to have taken the opportunity to go through the whole range of beers. However once the subject of lunch was mentioned an hour later coats were donned and farewells said.

The old stone bridge over Springwell Brook was crossed and an eagle eye spotted wild lettuce. Grassed fields and stiles were traversed and then Black Peter's Bar was reached, boots removed and Ivan meta-morphed into Black Peter and was soon dispensing pints of Harvest Pale and Cotleigh Golden Seahawk (4.2%), both in tip top condition, as was BP. Liz had prepared a feast of curries, rice dishes, and more, and the warm sunny garden was the place to be, along with numerous visits to the bar naturally.

Many thanks to Liz and Ivan for a good walk, excellent food and beer, and of course great company.