So, I am off. A successful first week’s walking with hugely helpful vehicular support from Mum sees me from Porthcothan to St Ives, and slightly surprised to have walked that far and to still have fully functioning legs and feet. This is encouraging.

Less so is today’s weather, which saw my expensive “all the gear and no idea” waterproof purchases given their first real test. Thankfully they passed. Other than that I have been lucky with sunshine and have a pink nose and very freckly mitts to prove it. Glorious sunshine if not hot, but that’s great for walking.

Things I have learned this week are quite how much downhill is preferable to up, how bad my navigational skills are (even on a coast path route I can go the wrong way), and how much friendlier people are when you get out of London. Ok, I knew all that already, but it’s been emphasised by experiences so far. I’m impressed by the fact that every single walker says hello. Most cheering.

Other highlights so far have been the wonderful Fern Pit Cafe and ferry near Newquay (www.fernpit.co.uk) – fantastic views while you eat your sarnie and a barefoot, tea-bearing ferryman accompanied by dog – and the sight of practise aerobatics near Godrevy head. Not to mention all the glorious colours and sights of the North Cornish Coast. Have a look at http://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Have now been joined by Debbie and Stu in the lovely St Ives, and about to set off round The End! See you on the other side!

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