Old Man Oakley (David) kindly invited me to Hurstbourne Priors for a guided tour of the Bourne, to see the stretch described by Harry Plunkett Greene in 'Where the Bright Waters Meet'. It was a cold blustery day which was very appropriate as HPG repeatedly complained about the North East wind that blows down the Bourne Valley.
My journey West was uneventful except for the SatNav which proudly declared that I had 'arrived at my destination' while waiting at the traffic lights outside Boots in the centre of Winchester.
The Bourne Valley is a beautiful place, not part of the 'normal' world. It is quintessentially English, peaceful and oozing charm. I had entered a time warp and felt privileged to be in such a calming environment.
David was the perfect host. We had tea and homemade jam sponge while chatting about the Bourne. The plan was to visit the places featured in the book and compare 1902 to 2016. My back was a problem but after copious painkillers I managed to stumble along behind David as we explored this private stretch on the Apsley Estate. The river was in fine, winter condition and the photos tell the story better than words.
Savage and Sharkey's cottage
We had lunch at the pub and then finished the tour with a visit to the Bright Waters just below the viaduct.
More tea and cake and then the long journey home, the SatNav refused to talk to me. I think it was sulking because I had taken a short cut.
When I arrived home my mind was in a whirl. Crystal clear water, primroses, rising trout, deep pools and cake. The day was very enjoyable, better than fishing. The next time I read the book I will recall my visit and know exactly where HPG was standing and how he felt. Thank you for a memorable day David.
