Friday, March 15

Finally I decide that I have acclimatised myself. I dig out my spikes, the ones I attach to the soles of my boots, and head off for a proper walk. The air feels cold but I tell myself how much good it will do me.

I walk down to the sea and find that the ice has encouraged the ducks to wander onto the paths and the road, as it does most years. Once they have taken up residence on land they forget to feel any fear of cars, dogs or pedestrians.