Dolebury & Rowberrow Warren Hike Including Shipham, Part I,' Exploring Off-Track Along North Side'
Channel: semw52
Date: 25/06/2023

This visit is a return, very soon after the previous hike, to continue the exploration of the North side of Dolebury Warren skirting the base of the Iron Age Hill Fort.I end up battling thru a jungle of brambles within the undergrowth following a almost hidden but a defined track--a direct link to 'The Loop'--a plaque and gateway to broader pathways--I have never walked this section before so it was all new but I was aware of the bigger map and area here---The only problem that when I got home I found at least 12 ticks but took immediate and appropriate action to destroy them---I have had a Lyme's Infection ,as opposed to disease, in 2019 but it was aggressively treated on that occasion.And so I am very aware of the risks and the need to take prompt action---it was a very hot day and I wore shorts for the first time this year not aware of the jungle I was about to encounter---so a bit risky  and yes the ticks were waiting--hungry as not many walkers pass thru here in the warmer months of the year as evident by the  wild growth all around but it was a defined path...I had no idea  ticks had landed on me because the cheeky creatures are good in disguise and anesthetize the skin when they  first latch on--so not aware of their presence until I got home and did the checks---removed quite a few ticks from various parts of my body--also having to use a mirror to assist--especially on the back-----then I showered, washed all my clothes and then got out all the creams, sprays and lotions for treatment and prevention......... Horseflies were also in action that day by the time I got to the stream area of Rowberrow Bottom--3 big bites from on my arms------Prevention lotions and sprays  now packed in the rucksack along with antihistamine cream and sting  and bite treatments...Yes Hikes can be a battle ground in heat waves---so go prepared folks....