AWAY FROM THE MAYHEM

                                                                                                  

This is a photo I took just two days ago from high up on the section of the South West Coast Path (SWCP) between Wembury and Newton Ferrers in south Devon.   It shows the estuary of the River Yealm, just before it enters the sea and we were fortunate to be there on a peerless September morning when the clear light, the gentle breeze, the warm sun and the breathless scenery made it possible to truly appreciate the joy of just being.

It was as if all the mayhem going on all around the world belonged to a different place, a different time and it all made me realise once more that all too often our sense of what is really important is so often misplaced.   Now I know I`m among the fortunate ones to have the time, the resources and the good health to escape to places such as this and yet I also know that these are the places I prefer, that suit me, that provide more fulfilment and enjoyment than anything else that might be on offer.

Anyway, the crossing of the River Yealm for coast path walkers is, in keeping with its surroundings, a matter of some uncertainty.   There`s a ferry across to the Noss Mayo side but this `service` is restricted to between April and the end of September and even then between the hours of 10.00 - 12.00 and 1500-1600, although `during fine weather and the school holidays` the hours can stretch between 10.00 and 16.00.   However, the SWCP handbook for the south Devon section says that `you are advised to shout or wave to attract the attention` of the ferryman.   At least it`s cheap and it avoids a 9-mile detour:-

(Click on picture to see the small print!)

And, of course, it`s all part of the beguiling charm and the pace of life that goes with enjoying these simple pleasures.   Ah well, back to the mayhem.............