45 Bassets romped along the sands to the old wooden lighthouse at Burnham on Sea: some even managed to pass the fish & chip shop by the pier to make the full round of four and a bit miles.

It was a particularly overwhelmingly emotional day for we the organisers as our five year old Melody had recently been diagnosed with liver cancer and we don't know how long we have to enjoy her company.

Artist Andrew from Chudleigh who dabbles (doubles?) as a banker by day, presented us with this magnificent portrait. We are extremely grateful to him for his skill and generosity. (He claims to be self-taught - but then so was Rembrandt).

But to the walk, it was a lovely day, not much wind, with people coming from Plymouth, Weymouth, Newport, Shropshire, Nottingham to name but a few. Many I'd not seen for years: a heartfelt thank you to you all.

As to future walks I will have to play it month by month, see how Melody maintains her fitness - and joie de vivre . . .

Photo from Ally (Click on image to see larger pic of the portrait). If you'd like Andrew to produce a portrait of your favourite hound please contact me and I will happily pass your name along)