South Downs Way - A long-held secret

The South Downs Way was not only about walking - there were some great opportunities to catch some culture - Raymond Briggs at Ditchling Museum of Art and Craft and Dorothy Hepworth at the Charleston Galleries in Lewes.

Dorothy Hepworth was particularly amazing. She was an extraordinary artist but a reserved person. Whereas her life partner Patricia Preece was a less impressive painter but a great schmoozer of people. They agreed to put Patricia's name on Dorothy 's paintings so that together they made up one successful artist. 

At one point Patricia even married Stanley Spencer on behalf of both of them. To no-one's surprise, the marriage didn't last. 

Each time, Dorothy finished a painting, Patricia took a photo of her holding it. Clearly she intended the truth to out one day. 

In fact, as old ladies, it was Patricia who died first. Through long loyalty, Dorothy continued to sign her paintings 'Patricia Preece'. 

To see the truth revealed and their story explored in this exhibition was very special like being let in on a long-held national secret.

Douth Downs Way, Day 7 Ditchling to Lewes - The bright lights of Lewes

Ever since we began our adventure a week ago, I have had my eye on this Thursday. A short walk, then an afternoon pottering about the shops and cafes of Lewes.

The morning's walking turned out to be only around seven miles. 

'Perhaps we can make it longer,'

'Absolutely not!'

An afternoon without milestones to hit was a wonderful prospect.  But when it came, it was hard to adjust to the change of pace.

Even as we began to wander the streets, I was still waiting for Nigel's Fitbit to announce 'Eight miles!' I kept feeling I had forgotten something. It was my walking poles - abandoned at the hotel.

Worst of all, our feet, instead of rejoicing at the leisurely pace, began to ache. 

We had to cut short our visit to Charleston Galleries and hobble back to the hotel.

So much for the bright lights of Lewes!