South London has some hidden treasures. Such as the Wandle River which meanders through Carshalton, Morden Hall, up to Merton Abbey mills and on to Wandsworth where it joins the Thames. It's hidden amongst housing estates, over grown tow paths, industrial estates and common ground. The council has attempted to promote the river by creating a trail with sign posts and information points.
Sharon and I decided to head off from Beddington park one sunny Sunday afternoon to the half way point at Merton Abbey Mills approx 6 miles away. The path was well signed posted to begin with and there were times, due to housing, that we were unable to follow the river exact.
But the walk was interesting as it varied in so many ways. We arrived at Merton Abbey Mills, a quirky market with of lots restaurants within the old mill yard.
After some refreshments we spent some time enjoying the atmosphere and shops before heading home. Neither of us could have no what laid ahead.
We entered a wooded area and followed the path when suddenly swoosh. What was that? Just ahead of us, chirping away was a beautiful coloured bird, a Jay bird. We commented how lovely it was, the colours etc and walked on. Then swoosh! The Jay bird was again ahead of us. Was it following us? We carried on and again in swooped in on us. Feeling a little nervous we walked a little faster, turning right along the river, whilst the other path carried straight on. Well now we'll see. Swoosh. That Jay bird was still following us or was he attacking us? We speed up again and the next thing I know is the bird hitting into me, hard! I screamed and gave Sharon a fright who thought I had fallen. The Jay was attacking us! Only one thing for it... Run to open ground!
As we reached open ground we glanced back and sure enough the Jay was there looking for us. Thankfully he didn't spot us and went back into the trees.
Both of us were in shock and felt a little stupid running through the wood being chased by a bird but found the funny side. My head was fine but was a little tender.
What did we do? When we got back we looked Jays up on the Internet. Everything we read said that they are timid birds who only attack if you disturb their nests. Well we didn't see any nests and the fact that it followed us for at least a half a mile makes us think it had an alternative motive!
It may seem silly and you may want to make fun of me but I am not alone. Other people I know have been attacked in their gardens where there are no nests.
You have been warned!!!
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