Alan Coxon of Roaming the Paths
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roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
Alan Coxon of Roaming the Paths
@roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
140 followers 100 following 110 posts
Wandering about, looking at nature, geology and the world around us. Public rights of way officer.

https://roaming-the-paths.co.uk/

I also review Ploughmans lunches. Now on a proper website!!

https://ploughmans-lunch.co.uk/
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roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
“Every time a pub closes, a community fades.”

It’s easy to think it’s just another building. But the pub has always been something more.

👉 Read the full reflection here: roaming-the-paths.co.uk/why-we-shoul...

#LoveThePub #SaveOurLocals #VillageLife #CommunityMatters #RuralVoices #PubsArePeople
A traditional whitewashed stone pub with a slate roof and blue window frames, set under a clear blue sky. Outside, rustic wooden benches, colourful flower tubs, and blackboard menus create a welcoming scene. A sign on the wall reads "Beer Garden," and another indicates a small museum. Overlaid text reads: “Every time a pub closes, a community fades.”
June 25, 2025 at 10:33 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
Look at the feathered fella waiting patiently to extinguish a life in the pursuit of luncheon.

The Heron haunts the banks of the Avon.......

#NaturePhotography
#Wildlife
#Heron
#Riverside
#PeacefulScenes
#WinterNature
#BirdWatching
#CountrysideViews
#ExploreNature
#RoamingThePaths
The image shows a serene natural setting with a river flowing gently through a wooded area. On the grassy riverbank, a grey heron stands poised, its slender body and long beak clearly visible. Surrounding the heron are trees and shrubs, some bare of leaves, hinting at a colder season. The scene captures a tranquil moment in nature, emphasizing the beauty of wildlife in its habitat. The image is watermarked with "Roaming the Paths ©".
January 8, 2025 at 7:07 PM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
Here's some of the chaos on the road network yesterday.

The M5 Gloucester northbound.

The entire journey that usually takes 4 hours on a friday was done in just under 3.

Never believe a newspaper.
#seasonal #travel #driving #motorway #M5
The image shows a wet motorway taken from inside a car, likely through the windshield, with visible raindrops and wiper streaks. The sky is overcast, and there are a few vehicles in the distance on the road, with some traffic visible on the opposite side. Trees line the left side of the motorway.
December 21, 2024 at 8:22 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
A cold wind blowing across the Lambourn Downs yesterday.

I saw more horses in one morning than in the previous 6 months. (A dozen horses were on the horizon to my left).

I was glad to get out the wind.
A view of a rural footpath that splits into two tracks surrounded by grassy fields. The path is uneven with some muddy and gravelly patches. Rolling green hills, hedgerows, and scattered trees can be seen in the background, with a cloudy grey sky above.
December 11, 2024 at 9:34 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
At long last, Richmond Sausages have been correctly labelled!! 😂
The image shows a pack of Richmond Meat-Free Sage & Onion Sausages in a supermarket freezer section. The pack is labeled as vegan and features an image of cooked sausages served with potatoes and vegetables. It is marked on clearance with a reduced price sticker indicating the new price is £1.08. The product has a use-by date of 9 December 2024.
December 9, 2024 at 6:17 PM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
Here's a beauty for Fingerpost Friday

#fingerpostfriday

#EnglishCountryside
#RuralLife
#ScenicWalks
#HistoricSignposts
#ExploreUK
#AutumnVibes
#WalkingThePaths
#NaturePhotography
#IdyllicViews
#TravelEngland
#CountrysidePhotography
#VisitBerkshire
#VillageLife
#DiscoverMore
#roamingthepaths
This is an image of a traditional white wooden signpost located in a rural setting, surrounded by lush greenery and autumn leaves scattered across the grass. The signpost is painted in white with black text, and its arms point in multiple directions, indicating various nearby locations and their distances. The design of the signpost is classic, with decorative wrought-iron flourishes at the top and on the arms. The destinations displayed on the sign include: 1. Wantage - 4 miles (pointing left). 2. Newbury - 10 miles (pointing left). 3. Lilley - 2 miles (pointing forward). 4. West Ilsley - 3 miles (pointing right). 5. East Ilsley - 4¾ miles (pointing right). The setting features a neat grassy verge, sprinkled with fallen leaves in shades of brown, orange, and red, suggesting the season is late autumn. In the background, there is a well-kept garden with dense bushes and a wooden fence partially visible. A driveway or path leads into what appears to be a private property on the right side of the image, and a white structure is partially seen, possibly a cottage or outbuilding. The photograph captures the rustic charm of the English countryside, with its peaceful surroundings and heritage-style signpost as a focal point. The blue sky and bare branches of nearby trees frame the scene, adding depth and contrast to the composition. The caption in the bottom-left corner reads "Roaming the Paths," indicating this image may be part of a countryside walking or travel series.
November 29, 2024 at 10:43 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
A somewhat sad and ancient fingerpost for this weeks #fingerpostfriday.

I was on my way to having a Ploughman's Lunch at The Olde Forge which I reviewed here ploughmans-lunch.co.uk/the-old-forg...

Have a look, see how it was.
#roamingthepaths
#ploughmanslunch
This image captures a rural roadside scene dominated by greenery and early autumn foliage. The central feature is a wooden sign that reads "The Old Forge Farm Shop & Cafe," accompanied by a stylized depiction of an anvil in black. The sign is mounted on two wooden posts and positioned in front of a grassy verge. To the right of the sign is a large, irregularly shaped white stone partially embedded in the ground, contrasting with the surrounding green vegetation. In the background, there is a tall wooden utility pole with visible wiring extending across the top of the frame. Attached to the pole is a small rectangular sign, its text weathered or unclear. To the left of the pole, a brown directional signpost with a white arrow points toward an undefined destination, partially obscured by overgrown shrubs. The surrounding environment features lush vegetation, with bushes and trees displaying a mix of green and warm autumnal tones—orange, yellow, and brown leaves—indicating the season. The road curves to the right, leading deeper into a village-like setting where a stone building is partially visible. The scene is overcast, with a dull grey sky suggesting cool weather, consistent with autumn in a temperate climate.
November 22, 2024 at 8:30 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
I see your bridge, and present an even dodgier structure..
This photo depicts a rustic brick and wooden bridge located amidst lush vegetation. The bridge is constructed with red bricks forming sturdy square piers, supporting a wooden superstructure with railings made of timber beams. A weathered metal mesh, attached to the railing, provides additional reinforcement. The wood appears aged, with some discoloration and wear visible, giving it a sense of character and history. The surroundings are overgrown with dense foliage, primarily consisting of brambles, nettles, and a variety of climbing plants that reach up towards the bridge structure. These plants are a mix of green shades, ranging from dark, mature leaves to lighter, younger growth. Some yellowed leaves hint at seasonal changes, likely autumn. In the background, bare tree branches stretch into a vivid blue sky, adding depth and framing the bridge. A sign is partially visible on the brickwork beneath the bridge, though the text is obscured by the greenery. The setting exudes a quiet, natural beauty, reflecting the timeless interplay of man-made structures and encroaching nature. The photograph captures a peaceful, pastoral scene often found on rural walking paths.
November 18, 2024 at 11:49 PM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
A little #bluesky treat for my followers on Bluedky today.

A shout out to my new followers too - doubled in a few days.

#😊
This image showcases a serene rural landscape under a bright, clear blue sky. The foreground features a vibrant green field, dotted with occasional patches of slightly darker grass, indicating varied growth or dampness. A faint footpath cuts across the grass, suggesting regular use by walkers or local wildlife. Dominating the scene are several majestic deciduous trees in varying stages of late autumn foliage. The closest tree, on the left, has a wide canopy with leaves that appear to be a mix of gold and brown hues, contrasting beautifully against the sky. Further back, another tree stands tall, its branches partially bare, revealing the skeletal structure of the tree as it prepares for winter. The middle ground transitions gently into the distance, with rolling hills that frame the horizon. Beyond the trees, the view reveals sparse rural dwellings and other subtle indications of human habitation, such as a fence line and power lines, blending seamlessly into the natural setting. The sky above is a striking feature, painted with crisscrossing contrails that streak across the deep blue, adding depth and texture to the expanse. The sunlight, positioned slightly off to the right, casts long, soft shadows across the field and lends a gentle golden glow to the scene, enhancing its peaceful and picturesque quality. In the lower right corner, some foliage intrudes into the frame, providing a natural vignette effect and drawing the viewer's eye into the image's open expanse. The overall composition evokes a sense of tranquility and connection with nature, making it a captivating representation of rural England in late autumn.
November 18, 2024 at 10:38 PM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
A good few days here.

The other place reminds me of a pub that's been taken over by a deranged gang.
November 17, 2024 at 8:31 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
That's better!

#dayjob
#fixedit
#roamingthepaths
#fixingthepaths
October 22, 2024 at 6:25 PM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
Finger-toast.

This car needs slightly more than just a valeting.

Berkshire Hampshire border, soon to be removed.

#fingerpostfriday #fingerposts
#fingerpost
The image shows a severely burned-out car, left abandoned on a rural roadside. The vehicle's exterior is charred, and the front end seems particularly damaged. It is positioned near overgrown vegetation and a large tree, with a muddy patch in the foreground. There is also a small signpost in the background, which appears to mark a footpath or country road, though it is partially obscured. The scene conveys a desolate and somewhat neglected environment.
October 18, 2024 at 2:29 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
#fingerpostfriday brought to you by Flail Fail.

#roamingthepaths
The image shows a partially obscured green signpost, overgrown with ivy and other vegetation. The signpost is mounted on a metal pole, which appears to be in a rural or countryside setting. Some branches and leaves are intertwined with the sign, making the text difficult to read. However, part of the text that is visible reads "F" and possibly "Gloucest" below it, indicating a location or trail name associated with Gloucestershire. The background features more greenery, including trees, with a metal gate visible to the left. The scene suggests an overgrown public footpath or trail marker.
September 27, 2024 at 4:15 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
Bluesky now has over 10 million users, and I was #6,123,074!
A virtual certificate with text "Celebrating 10M users on Bluesky, #6,123,074, Alan Coxon of Roaming the Paths ‪@roaming-the-paths.bsky.social‬, joined on Aug 10, 2024"
September 24, 2024 at 9:50 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
CLOSED!!
Footpath closed (public right of way) with no explanation.

I was puzzled.

Then I wandered under the bridge and saw good reason!! The other side is just as horrific.
The image shows a small footpath that leads to a wooden gate surrounded by dense green foliage. Behind the gate, a bright orange plastic barrier blocks the path, with signs attached indicating restricted access. The scene is illuminated by sunlight filtering through the leaves, creating a mix of light and shadow on the ground. The surrounding area appears to be a natural, overgrown environment, giving the impression of a rural or forested walking path. The bottom left of the image includes text that reads "Roaming the Paths." The image shows a lush, overgrown area beneath a small bridge. The bridge is constructed from weathered wood with a wire fence along its railings, supported by a brick pillar. The foliage is dense, with green leaves and plants covering much of the lower part of the scene. The bright sunlight highlights the greenery, while the shadows under the bridge add contrast. The surrounding trees and bushes give the setting a wild, natural look. The text "Roaming the Paths ©" appears at the bottom left of the image. The image shows a close-up view of a weathered wooden bridge supported by a brick pillar. The wooden structure appears old, with some visible decay, as parts of the wood have rotted and broken off. The bridge has a wire mesh fence, with wooden beams securing it in place. The brick pillar, supporting the bridge, has a distinct pattern with layers of bricks, and the surrounding area is overgrown with greenery and plants. Sunlight brightens the scene, casting shadows of the foliage on the brickwork. The text "Roaming the Paths ©" is visible at the bottom left of the image. The image provides a close-up view of a severely decayed wooden support beam on a bridge. The wood is heavily rotted, with large sections missing and splintering around a rusted metal bolt that is barely holding the structure together. The decay reveals a dark cavity beneath the surface of the wood. The bridge is supported by a concrete and brick base, which appears more stable in contrast to the deteriorated wood. Green plants and vines are visible in the surrounding area, suggesting a natural, overgrown environment. The text "Roaming the Paths ©" is placed in the lower left corner of the image.
September 17, 2024 at 2:43 PM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
The right way up!

#fingerpostfriday
The image shows a signpost on a grassy field under a bright blue sky with scattered white clouds. The signpost has several wooden arrows pointing in different directions, each labeled with text in a playful, vintage font. The arrows read "CAFÉ," "BOX OFFICE," "TOILET," "SHOP," and "TREATS." In the background, there is a large circus tent with the words "GIFFORDS CIRCUS" displayed at the top, and people can be seen walking around the area, adding to the lively atmosphere. The overall scene suggests a festive outdoor event, likely a circus or fair.
August 30, 2024 at 8:33 PM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
Late entry to #fingerpostfriday.

No idea why it's sideways...
The image shows a signpost on a grassy field under a bright blue sky with scattered white clouds. The signpost has several wooden arrows pointing in different directions, each labeled with text in a playful, vintage font. The arrows read "CAFÉ," "BOX OFFICE," "TOILET," "SHOP," and "TREATS." In the background, there is a large circus tent with the words "GIFFORDS CIRCUS" displayed at the top, and people can be seen walking around the area, adding to the lively atmosphere. The overall scene suggests a festive outdoor event, likely a circus or fair.
August 30, 2024 at 8:25 PM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
Look at the batteries on that!

They performed awesomely as indeed did Massive Attack #MassiveAttack

What a great effort to reduce carbon and pollution for a festival / performance.
#bristol #gridfairies
#Banksy
The image shows a row of three connected modular units with solar panels mounted on top. The units are branded with the name "GRID FAERIES" and "Ecotricity" in large white letters on a black and green background. The units appear to be designed for sustainable energy production or storage, likely used at an outdoor event or festival, as indicated by the surrounding equipment and tents. A person is seen standing to the right, wearing black clothing, and appears to be involved in setting up or operating the equipment. The sky above is overcast, suggesting cloudy weather. The image shows a close-up of one of the modular units with solar panels on top, similar to the previous image. The unit is primarily green with black accents and features two large circular designs on the front, likely representing input/output ports or control panels. Several thick black cables are connected to the bottom of the unit, leading out to other equipment. The surrounding area includes metal structures and other event setup gear, indicating the unit's use in providing power or utilities at an outdoor event. The grass beneath is green, and the sky above is cloudy, suggesting overcast weather. The image depicts an outdoor music stage with a large black backdrop and lighting rig, preparing for a performance. The stage is labeled "ACT 1.5" at the top. In front of the stage, a crowd of people is gathered on the grass, some sitting, others standing, waiting for the event to begin. The sky is overcast, and the atmosphere appears to be relaxed and casual, with people chatting and enjoying the setting. Large screens are positioned on either side of the stage, and the overall setup suggests this is part of a larger festival or concert. Massive Attack performance. The image captures a nighttime concert scene with a large crowd gathered in front of a stage. The stage is illuminated with bright lights, and a performer is visible on the big screen, singing into a microphone. The stage is labeled "ACT 1.5" at the top, indicating the set or performance being shown. The atmosphere is vibrant, with concertgoers silhouetted against the stage lights, many holding up phones to capture the moment. The surrounding area is dark, with only the stage and some lights from exit signs visible, highlighting the energy of the live performance.
August 30, 2024 at 5:44 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
A beautiful chalk stream full of life.
Considering how precious it is, the upper reaches of the Salisbury Avon (why call it the Hampshire Avon) have not always been in good condition. Work by local volunteers, farmers and Wilts Wildlife are producing results. #chalkstream #pewseyvale #wiltshire
The image shows a small, clear stream flowing between dense, green vegetation on either side. The water is shallow, allowing the stony riverbed to be visible through the surface. The stream is narrow and flanked by thick, bushy plants with rich green leaves that partly cover the water. The scene is tranquil, capturing a natural setting with an overhanging branch in the foreground, which appears to be part of a bridge or railing. The environment suggests a peaceful, rural location, possibly a part of a larger nature trail or park.
August 24, 2024 at 8:10 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
The Royal Oak in Marlborough winning in floral extravagance!

Stunning.

#publichouse #hangingbaskets
The image shows the exterior of a charming, traditional pub with the name "Royal Oak." The building has a brick facade with large windows on either side of the entrance. The entrance features double doors with glass panes and is framed by a sign above that reads "211 High Street." A significant feature of the pub's exterior is the abundance of vibrant, colorful flowers that cascade from window boxes above the windows and around the entrance. These flowers include a variety of colors such as red, purple, yellow, and pink, creating a lush, welcoming appearance. The hanging baskets and flower arrangements add to the picturesque and inviting ambiance of this quaint establishment. The pub's name is also displayed on a hanging sign above the entrance.
August 22, 2024 at 7:40 PM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
Is #fingerpostfriday a thing here?

If not, it should be.

A Kentish beauty this week.
The image shows an old-fashioned fingerpost sign, which is typically found in rural England. At the top of the post, there's a circular finial with the word "Trottiscliffe" around the rim, indicating the location. Below, the post has several directional signs pointing to various nearby places, with the distances in miles: - One sign points left towards "The Church" and "Court Lodge," both listed as ½ mile away, and "Coldrum," which is 1 mile away. - Another sign points right towards "Wrotham Heath," 1½ miles away, and "Boro Green," 3 miles away. - The lower signs point left towards "Stansted," 2 miles away, and "Meopham," 4 miles away, and to the right towards "Addington," 1½ miles away, and "West Malling," 3 miles away. The sign is located near a fence and some greenery, possibly in a small village or rural area. The image depicts a rural village scene, likely in England, centered around a traditional fingerpost sign. The signpost is painted white and black and features multiple directional signs indicating nearby locations such as "The Church," "Court Lodge," "Coldrum," "Wrotham Heath," "Boro Green," "Stansted," and "Meopham." To the left of the signpost, there is a separate post with a black metal sign displaying the name "Trottiscliffe" along with a decorative design. The road curves gently into the distance, bordered by tall, manicured hedges on the left and a traditional brick house with a tiled roof on the right. A purple flag flies from a flagpole near the house, and there are flowers in a planter at the base of the pole. In the foreground, a black signboard advertises "The George Beer & Cider Festival," dated for September 2023, with details written in chalk. The scene is peaceful, with a clear sky and soft, evening sunlight casting long shadows. The location appears quiet, with no v
August 16, 2024 at 4:55 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
A nice afternoon in the other office.

Most of my job is administration, project management, stuff.

However, there is also this bit. Not enough, but more than any other job i have done.

West Berkshire from the top of West Berkshire.
The image depicts a serene rural landscape with rolling hills and fields in the background. In the foreground, there are several white sheep grazing on a grassy hill. The sky is overcast, creating a calm and somewhat muted atmosphere. A tree branch with green leaves partially frames the upper part of the image, adding depth to the scene. The overall setting is peaceful, with the sheep appearing to be at ease in the expansive open field.
August 15, 2024 at 7:57 PM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
Bluesky or Twitter?

A visual representation (as I couldn't locate a picture of a turd).
A well-maintained garden path bordered by lush, varied plants. The path is paved and leads through an area rich with greenery, including tall wildflowers and manicured shrubs, creating a serene and inviting environment. A narrow woodland path made of weathered wooden planks, partially overgrown with moss and surrounded by dense greenery. The path leads into a tunnel-like area formed by arching trees and undergrowth, with sunlight filtering through the foliage.
August 15, 2024 at 6:59 AM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
Did someone same don't upset the Americans talking about food?

OK, I just leave this here on thus wall with the terrible view.

On a serious note - I will post pictures of nice scenes.... please feel free to show approval.

Location: Puncknowle, Dorset.
#ploughmans #lunch #dorset
The image depicts a close-up of a plate with a variety of food items, set on a rustic stone surface. The plate contains slices of cheese, a small packet of butter, bread, and a fresh salad that includes lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and radishes. In the background, there is a scenic view of a lush, green countryside with rolling hills and trees under a clear sky. The text "Roaming the Paths" appears at the bottom left corner of the image.
August 14, 2024 at 1:48 PM
roaming-the-paths.bsky.social
Where are you to get rain?

This is how I feel at the moment...
This image shows a potato that has an unusual appearance resembling a face. The potato's shape and the way it has developed natural marks and wrinkles give it a look similar to a face with two eyes, a nose, and a mouth, creating a slightly eerie or humorous effect. The "face" appears to have a somewhat solemn or sleepy expression due to the positioning of the marks.
August 11, 2024 at 8:35 AM