For the first time this week, I had to wear a coat on my early morning walk, and it was notably dark as I set off. That said, and knowing that a storm was on its way, yesterday I watched the sun break over a gloriously clear sky. And anyone who’s been out and about will have noticed that, although they feel a bit late this year, the leaves on the trees are finally turning golden, and we’re entering what is probably set to be one of the most fabulous periods for autumn colours. So bah humbug to the rain today.
In the newsletter, we’ve got a bit of a motoring theme this week. Bexhill is our Town of the Month, and while we were there recently, we followed the town’s motoring heritage trail, marked by various information boards.
It’s a really fascinating insight into our Sussex motoring history and, by a strange twist of fate, helped bring my Belloc walk across Sussex into context. Because, of course, when Belloc walked in 1902, a car was a rare thing indeed. Speaking of Belloc, I’m setting off on the second leg of that walk this weekend, although I’m watching the weather carefully because the forecast isn’t good. I’ll be walking from Old Heathfield to Fletching.
In other motoring news, on 1 November, it’s one of the county’s most significant motoring events of the year: the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. The route goes right through Sussex, and there are various fabulous places along the way from which you can watch. It’s a really great day out, particularly for anyone who has even a passing interest in cars.
Sticking with all things seasonal, it wouldn’t be October without a few ghosts! So, I’ve put together some super-spooky Sussex walks, from Racton Ruin to Bramber Castle and the Highwayman of Winchelsea. Go on, scare yourself witless this October!
If you’re hungry, this week we have the next instalment in Sarah Thompson’s (from The Sussex Kitchen) chestnut recipe series, capturing all the wonderful flavours of autumn. She’s sharing a chestnut and blue cheese tartlet and a delicious chestnut soup. Perfect enjoyed on their own or as part of a full autumn feast.
And in our lifestyle section, Judith Dandy of Dandelion Farewells talks about Lining Up Your Ducks and the importance of talking about our own demise. And don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s a depressing subject, because I think Judith would reassure you it’s certainly not. Indeed, it’s quite uplifting and encouraging, and well worth a read.
That’s it for now. Stay safe in the forthcoming bad weather, and maybe see you out on the trail.
Lucy
Sussex Exclusive
