Text contributed by Bess the cockapoo (the IOG’s rov(er)ing reporter); pics by Patrick and Ian.
I led my first IOG walk from Helmingham Hall estate on Wednesday 15th May. I wore a yellow coat so I wouldn’t be confused with the other two dogs, who were both called Poppy. I find it best to keep it simple for the walkers.
We had three Alans on the walk so we ensured they were all colour coded in either red or orange. One of the Alans was at the rear of the walk some of the time and it was good to be able to see his bright red coat.
The main function of my yellow coat was to keep me partially dry because the major role of a canine walk leader appears to be to soak up any water on the paths from earlier rain, thereby keeping the walkers’ feet a little drier. Fortunately, the weather was really pleasant and I don’t mind being used as a sponge! (So my human tells me anyway.)
Helmingham Hall is a very nice place that likes dogs. The Hall is surrounded by a moat and has two drawbridges. The drawbridges have been pulled up every night since 1510. Queen Elizabeth 1st and 2nd both visited the Hall.
We headed northwards towards North Park Farm, then did a circular route towards Paris Farm and back into the Helmingham Hall estate. We also visited the obelisk on the estate. The walk was almost exactly five miles in length.
During the walk, we saw a herd of young calves frolicking in their field, and a beautiful herd of fallow deer crossed the path in front of us on the estate. One of the deer was a much darker colour than the rest and clearly had not got the memo about colour coding.
The walkers seemed excited by the treats awaiting them in the excellent Wright’s Café at the Hall, where a good time was had by all. The toasted sandwiches and salad were excellent.
Patrick and Ian took the rather artistic pictures which accompany this article. So we will forgive Ian for eating the last piece of delicious-looking sticky ginger cake with lemon icing.
I would like the walkers to step up their game for next time and give me a lot more cuddles, although they may have been put off by my soaking wet head and feet. Otherwise, it was a really nice walk with a great set of people.