ON A bright sunny morning, 11 Valeways walkers set off from the Pelican to climb to the top of Ogmore Down. It was a steep climb but on reaching the top, the views opened out, across the Bristol Channel to North Devon and Exmoor.

Passing golfers on Southerndown Golf Course, the walkers dropped down into the village of St Brides passing the church of St Bridget on the way.

Turning right they headed for the now closed (unfortunately) Farmers Arms and then walked across fields to the top of Pant Y Slade. Snowdrops and primroses in flower to enhance the walk down the valley to Dunraven Bay where a stop was made for the drinking of coffee.

Suitably refreshed the party climbed the steps to the top of the cliff heading for Ogmore by Sea. In the sunshine it was a glorious walk along the cliff top. A red kite soared overhead and Chris pointed out 350 million year old fossilised coral in the rocks.

Turning inland to walk up the Ogmore valley, the group walked through the sand dunes to cross the road by Portobello House. A heron flying over was being mobbed by gulls who clearly were unhappy about its presence.

The group climbed a footpath running parallel with the road but higher up with extensive views over Merthyr Mawr. A short walk along this path brought them back to the pub for welcome food and drink.

Many thanks to the Pelican for their hospitality and the use of their car park.