The Oxford Fieldpath Volunteer

(after and with apologies to A.E.Houseman with may be a bit of Wordsworth thrown in)

I come from the haunt of overgrown paths; decrepit stiles with steps set high; missing rails, barbed wire lurking ready to snare unwary walker.

Waymarks lost to view add to the miles of paths made difficult by wobbling stiles that delay our days and require all our wiles to complete the miles.

Such difficult ways hide the wire or thorns that cut the flesh and snag the Gortex, raising warning cries or tears to the walker's eyes.

To mend such woes I join with others to improve these rights of way with easy swinging gates, sturdy stiles and waymarks made clear.

Waymarks new will ease the way so that I may raise my eyes to see afresh the wide open skies over and the wild flowers blooming fresh below.

These simple wishes I share with others to open ways for all to see the secret Oxfordshire countryside new.

Circular walks made new would provide easy access and solace fresh from our worldly woes.

Peter Ewart