As the minibus packed with Steps2Health walkers sped towards Carmarthen, it rather looked as though the run of fine Saturday was to be broken as black clouds gathered and the rain started (writes B.S.).

But the fears of nearly 40 walkers were unfounded. Leaving the busy traffic behind, the route now lay along the quiet road to Llanstephan. As if by magic, the sun broke through and the stunning scenery of the estuary was revealed in all its glory. Llanstephan may have been a busy trading port in the Middle Ages, with ships from Spain and France, but now the absolute peace and quietness of this waterside place impressed everyone.

More members of the group were waiting in the car park below the castle. The shorter walk was led by Janice Tooth, Barbara Morris and Erica Ward, and gave the opportunity to admire the lovely cottages and houses, many with verandas overlooking the estuary.

The longer walk, led by Val Coates-Rees, Margaret Lewis and Brian Ward, was an assault on the ancient castle that keeps guard over the little town. All agreed it was well worth the climb to the top of the tower for the breathtaking views right over the sunlit estuary basking in the autumn sunshine.

And the sunshine certainly tempted most of the group to enjoy their morning coffee and early lunch al fresco at the beach shop and tearooms, where the excellent service made for a relaxed atmosphere in such lovely surroundings.

Tomorrow (Saturday), the walk starts approx 10.20 am at New Hedges Village Hall to walk back to Tenby to join the coffee morning at St. Johns Church for Christian Aid. The Silcox 351 leaves Tenby at 10 am.