So off we went; 8 dogs, 7 people, 3 caravans. down to Dr. Neils Meredith farm campsite inbetween ross-on-wye and monmouth again. This was the first time all three caravans had been away together so it was quite an event!
Arriving Friday night in the dark, we were the last to get there, but Kay had a pan of stew all ready for us to tuck into once the 'van was set up. Early to bed so we can take everyone on a long 7mile walk the next day. We awoke to the most glorious day, mist was visible at the lower end of the campsite, the sun was breaking through the low clouds and it was looking like a beautiful day.
The walk was one we had done from the AA walks guide in May when we had visited. A circular walk, starting from Goodrich castle carpark, down to the river, along the bank, and back over coppet hill. It has great views of Symonds Yat Rock and the valley in some gorgeous countryside.
Our walk was brilliant and pleasent until we were accosted by the rudest 'gamekeeper' shouting abuse towards us while striding over the brow of a hill. He had fired his gun seconds before which stunned us stationary, and trying to gather 2 of the dogs up, as they were spooked. All in all, it wasnt a pleasent experience, with the young 'gamekeeper' mis-quoting the countryside code with regards to dogs, mis-quoting legislation with regards to walkers on public footpaths, and basically being offensive!
I am writing several letters to specific people/groups about the incidence; herefordshire council (responsible for the marking and maintenance of public rights of way and signs along them), the ramblers association, the national gamekeepers association, the kennel club, any relevant government associations/departments, and if i can locate an address; the estate where i belive he worked.
I am investigating whether or not he commited an offence against the fire arms act of 1968, whether he acted with 'assault' towards us, and whether the self errected signs poorly positioned are actually in breach of the law or countryside code.
Despite this altercation, we enjoyed the rest of the walk, and took the opportunity when we got back to the castle to sneak a 15min look around the castle. The most complete, medieval castle still standing in the UK.
On the Sunday, we thought we would stay away from gamekeepers, and took to the riverside in Symonds Yat East for a walk to the 'wibbly wobbly rope bridge' and back. We parked in Symonds Yat east (blue blob on map) and walked the foot path all along the river bank until we meth the rope foot bridge over the river (from wales to england). this was a lot of fun trying to tempt some of the dogs over it, and Kay wasnt too sure either!
We all had a fab time, bloody brilliant weekend and cant wait to all do it again... maybe without being shot at next time though!
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