Throughout Britain there are numerous examples of wild animals that have attained "legend status" and our extensive local research has led us to stories of The Stroat Stoat.
The earliest documented evidence of this fabled creature appeared in records written by Sir Peregrine Mustelo, one time owner of Stroat House. He mentioned a strain of local stoats that had developed a liking for human blood after his great uncle Adolphus rashly stuck his hand into some tree roots to try and winkle out one particlularly large specimen. Stories of local villagers being attacked by "larger than normal" stoats while wandering homewards from the Netherend Inn abound and in the 19th century (and into the early 20th) it was not uncommon for local people to pray for deliverance from "the animal of the night" at Stroat Evangelical Mission.
You are unlikely to come upon the Stroat Stoat during daylight hours but it would be wise to be on your guard. The Stroat Stoat's natural inclination is to leap at any areas of pale, exposed flesh, dig its teeth in and hang on tight. (Please be aware of this if you need to attend to any call of nature while walking in the Stroat area.) However, if you are unlucky enough to come face to face with one it is possible to soothe the savage beast by slowly reaching out a hand towards it, then very cautiously scratching its head just behind the ears. (Gardening gloves recommended.)
Suggested parking by Stroat Evangelical Church: N51°40.519 W2°37.224
Please note there's no convenient parking on the unclassified road (Rosemary Lane) west of the cache location.