Cheddar Gorge Black Rock & Reserve Part IV Down Old Woman's Lane To Black Rock Quarry March 21st 24'
Channel: semw52
Date: 25/03/2024

I just love this old wibbly wobbly track which I call Old Woman's Lane--it just conjures up images of long ago when  in the past people were also treading this path and for some reason because I am getting older I can imagine another  older woman in another time, era also enjoying or enduring this wander---harder on the way up after a day's hike but quiet and peaceful.Today a bit sad as well as Long Wood, which the track skirts, is suffering with Ash-Dieback disease and is trying to heal, repair and recover and us humans denied access while this healing process occurs--the trees all thin, black and brittle but standing tall and still with its  little paths now hidden under the debris of its fallen branches and  also complete trees down creating gaps in the skyline.The little stream will still be making music in the combe and soon the Bluebells and white wild garlic will brighten up this lovely place for a while covering the ground with blankets of blue and white......For now we must Keep Out and let Long Wood rest and gain immunity and then one day the Wood Rangers will come and create new paths and signs for the children to follow like ones before were gifted to enjoy here.....
Once I leave the track I head onwards  along a muddy combe leading to the quarry--the redundant quarry that seems to have shrunk--looks smaller, frailer-----the feeling of old age creeping up again in my language and thoughts as I too recognise the changes in strength and energy--subtle changes  but growing awareness reminded by the hill climbs and the sometimes challenging terrain.I will walk here  in the Future in my dreams and feel the beauty and peace .....My spirit will always return for a wander ...