You’ve just got to get out and do something on New Years day and a walk takes some beating. With most of the harbour submerged in mud, a ramble along a sandy beach is appealing so we headed for Wittering.

Naturally the idea had occurred to many others so the traffic was heavy and when we got there the usual parking was full so we were directed to the overflow field even though it was only 11am.

There was not much wildlife to be seen apart from a huge number of Brent geese sitting quietly in an adjacent field; once out we did see two large flocks of small birds in the distance. Too far away to be certain but probably Dunlin.

The most interesting creatures to watch were people, teaming hoards of them all out to enjoy some fresh air. The smart ones came equipped with picnics although few ventured far from their cars. Dress ranged from what might be appropriate for a polar exploration to quite silly shorts and plimsols. Many brought dogs of every breed and varying behaviour; all too often apologising for their dogs not being very sociable. All very friendly and well natured though, rather pleasant company and a change from the usual regular walkers.

Once out on the head people were spread out a bit more so it was pleasant enough especially as the tide was out exposing a mass of sand for them to meander over. Shame there wasn’t a bit more wind or that the visibility wasn’t better; it was only just possible to see West Pole over the calm sea, hardly any waves.