Struggling with overgrown footpaths...............................................................

I was out very early a couple of weeks ago to do a walk I hadn't done for a couple of years.

The day had started brightly but it wasn't long before the rain clouds moved in.

It was a struggle right from the start... this field was planted with Oilseed Rape.

Almost impossible to walk through which was a bit a problem as....

... the public right of way was overgrown with Stinging nettles... rather painful.

I spotted this little Whitethroat on the rapeseed and managed to get this (cropped) record shot.

I eventually reached the bridge that crosses the main Birmingham to Liverpool railway line.

The path on the other side was thankfully clear (it links up to a more popular route).

Looking back towards the railway bridge... a bit of an eyesore amid the lovely countryside.

 My stroll was fine after the initial struggle but as on most days this summer ended with rain.

Other paths had different reasons to stay away from.

Rural Thursday

Skywatch Friday