I was only introduced to the Woods a couple of years ago when I had a new puppy and looked for nice places to walk him.

 

I especially loved the Woods. I felt comfortable walking a very lively puppy knowing that I was surrounded by dog lovers who would understand.

 

I became more and more fond of the walk and by now I do it pretty much every day.

 

Last year I was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to go through surgery. As I was lying in the anaesthetics room the Anaesthetist asked me to think of a happy place as I was drifting off to sleep. I immediately thought of walking through the Woods with the sun speckled on the dry leaf floor; my golden retriever, Alfie running at full gallop through the trees.

 

I came through the surgery and the subsequent radiotherapy and all is well now. I think of that moment every time I start my walk. My happy place!

 

I am sure there are many people who get a similar emotion as they step through the gates.

 

Thank you for all you do to make it such a beautiful place to be.