"Mad dogs and Englishmen...

…go out in the midday sun”. I beg to differ Mr Coward.

Over the last few days, starting on Sunday, I have been enjoying Britain’s finest asset - its amazing countryside! I set my self a goal to cover 50 miles in 1 week in the company of Rufus (pictured above). Its Wednesday today and we are doing well having covered 33.5 miles (53.8 km). That’s not too shabby for an old geezer and his 2 year old Cockapoo. My walks take in some of the most stunning views to be found in Sussex along the South Downs Way. These include Wolstenbury Hill, Ditchling Beacon and a visit to the Chattri War Memorial, built to honour Indian soldiers who fought and died in World War 1.

I highly recommend them all for anyone itching to dust off their walking boots, especially the Chattri War Memorial, which at this time of year is hauntingly surrounded by wild poppy’s growing in the wheat fields. It certainly gave me goose bumps. Such brave souls. A touching tribute.

Today, however, our plans to conquer Devils Dyke were scuppered by of all things the British weather and for once I am not talking about the rain. All week the temperature has risen steadily and today we hit a barmy 34 degrees. Rufus and I attempted a local walk but it became clear that, unlike Noel Coward assertions in his 1931 song, “Mad dogs and Englishmen” most certainly do not go out in the midday sun and have adopted a more European attitude to the hottest part of the day. We decided on a siesta instead.

Having broken with one tradition today it seems only fair and right that balance is restored by adhering to another. Fish & Chips! What’s more traditional than that? Soul food indeed! (except it is not Sole its Cod).

Ok, not the healthiest of meals granted, but a little bit of what you like won't hurt. Yum!