Although Saturday morning was sunless with a spattering of rain, it could not dampen the spirits of the Tenby Steps2Health walkers as they took in the view of the Eight Arch Bridge which they would be crossing on their way to Stackpole Quay (writes BS).

Much as we enjoy our weekly perambulations around Tenby, these occasional sorties to more out of the way places are hugely popular and it was a packed minibus that Val Coates-Rees manouvered through narrow country lanes to deposit us all safely at the site where had once stood the imposing Stackpole Court, one of the residences of the Cawdor family.

Before setting off, our volunteer trained walk leader, Margaret Lewis, gave us time to browse in the double walled game larder which now houses pictures and information pertaining to this atmospheric place.

But now, in spite of the wind and light rain, we were eager to wend our way alongside the lake to the picturesque bridge. It was good to spot a couple of shy violets at the side of the path, forerunners of the snowdrops, daffodils and primroses which will form a processional floral route in a couple of months.

I think we were all surprised when we reached the bridge to find such a large crowd of people waiting to join us. Many of the regular walkers had opted to drive to the Stackpole Centre car park and we were pleased to welcome the Pembroke Dock Steps2Health walkers whom Paul Morris, walks co- ordinator, had brought along to join us.

So it was quite an army that streamed across the Eight Arch Bridge. One walker did express doubts that the cafe at Stackpole Quay would be open on a bleak January morning. But, of course, nothing is left to chance on these extremely well organised walks and Margaret had checked it would, indeed, be open and able to accommodate such a large party!

Picturesque though the cove with its cliffs and quay may be, it was into the cafe that the walkers made their way.

Filling every available table, we certainly gave the staff a foretaste of busy summer days!

And after warm drinks and sociable chatter, we were then revitalised to face the wind as our long procession made its way back to the Stackpole Centre.

This sociable and energising walk had, I am sure, chased away and January blues. To enjoy a local walk tomorrow (Saturday), meet outside Somerfield for a 10.30 am start.