Today I lead a small group of friends on a cycle tour to visit three of the major Neolithic Long Barrow sites in the Medway Valley. I had driven to them on a recce earlier in the week. I cycled to the Friars where I met the others. Five of us set off and first stop was Little Kits Coty, then over the river to Snodland, Burham, Ryarsh and then Trottiscliffe and the Coldrum Stones. A few people there today but I did take a ribbon or “clootie” as they were called. It was a tradition started hundreds of years ago to tie these on tree branches in a pace of peace and solitude. You have to think of someone close who is suffering and according to legend as the ribbon fades then so does their ailment. Nice little story so I went along with it. We then went to Addington Long Barrow, which the lane bisects. Phil, one of the group had visited a nearby Barrow called Chestnuts, which apparently is superb but it is on private land. One day I will seek permission to visit. All in all nice ride followed by a pleasant walk with Sue along our valley and Hayle Park.
Another good day for Mum. Best bit apparently she spent time with an unhappy lady making her happy agin. The staff were impressed and called Mum, kind and Caring….how nice.
