We couldn't quite manage brilliant sunshine for a third year running for our midsummer coach trip, but we were fortunate in avoiding the downpours and thunderstorm that came later that night.

There were 48 of us headed off to Henley upon Thames, from where two walks set off: one beginning alongside the river, led by Paul Windsor; the second heading off west and then north up the Stonor valley, led by Fiona Spencer with help from George Goodwin.

Just 14 hardy souls joined Paul and Marion for a 10-mile circular walk, setting off North along the Thames where crews were busy training in the final week before the Regatta. After passing Temple Island, the group headed into Hambleden Park and up onto the Chiltern Hills for a woodland lunch stop before returning via Henley Park.

The other walk gave the option for some to drop down to the village of Middle Assendon, whilst the rest headed on to Stonor Park, a walk of some 8 miles, with a welcome opportunity for tea time refreshments and relaxation in the gardens there before the coach returned us to Henley.

The countryside and views were stunning, and the skies were full of red kites, which now number more than a thousand breeding pairs in the Chilterns, after their re-introduction in 1989. Photos of the day, contributed by Barbara Mendus and Peter Camber, can now be seen in the Photo Gallery. 

This event has become a fixture that will continue in future summer programmes, so any ideas for next year's trip are welcome.