DAY FIVE  Rye to Bexhill-on-Sea

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It is interesting to see people's different priorities first thing in the morning.

For David eating is more important than finding his trousers.

Whereas for Abi, well . . . who knows?

The day was bright as we set off from the hall.

Our route took us once more alongside water.

Mark was only able to be with us one day this year, but was leading the day's walking and kept his eyes on the map to ensure all went smoothly.

Our first prayer stop was at St Richard's, Winchelsea Beach, where Richard spoke to us about his saintly namesake's efforts to ensure the independence of the church from state control and related this to modern-day circumstances in several countries, including areas of Africa in which he has worked.

Our walk took us along the coast and then inland again.

At our next stop, St Mary's and St Peter's, Pett, Bruce our coordinator took a few quiet minutes before the Rector arrived to open up the church.

We were welcomed and given a short talk on the history of the church, before William shared his thoughts on the connections and relationships between all sorts of apparently unconnected things in life.

Lunch was also in Pett at the Two Sawyers, where we refuelled in readiness for another ten miles.

In the afternoon, we had our first problem this year with arrows being moved. New Zealander Howard, here posing as the Angel of The North Island, is well known for being immovable and was, therefore, a good substitute.

Some pilgrims descended to the sea front at Hastings by way off the Cliff Railway; others climbed down the Tamarisk Steps.

We walked for several miles along the front and the fresh sea air was very welcome after the inland heat of our walking so far.

Several pilgrims lost track of time in the attractions of Hastings and had to dash back when they realised that dinner was about to be served.

Tomorrow is a rest day - and therefore a lie-in - and so a leisurely evening ensued.

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